On March 14, 2025, the Mayor of Florence ordered the closure of schools at all levels, parks, gardens, cemeteries, and other public areas due to severe weather, including orange alerts for hydraulic risks and thunderstorms. This decision was not taken lightly, but the urgency of the matter related to public safety necessitated immediate action.
The closures, effective for the entire day, included significant public amenities. All cemeteries, markets, and businesses situated on public land were shut down, along with libraries such as the Orticoltura and Galluzzo branches, as well as the Leonardo da Vinci libraries and the Luciano Gori reading point. It was emphasized to businesses operating within public parks and gardens to maintain safety conditions for their areas of responsibility.
Further restrictions were imposed on cultural events, such as the suspension of the performance "Le Streghe di Macbeth," which was scheduled for the day at the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino's Sala Grande. The tram line T1 also faced interruptions, particularly affecting the "Cascine" stop, which was temporarily closed.
Pedestrian access to certain areas was controlled, and patrons of venues like the Brancacci Chapel and the Santa Maria Novella Museum were barred from accessing outdoor portions, including the Great Cloister, Green Cloister, Cloister of the Dead, and Cloister Dati. Citizens were urged to avoid outdoor activities and to steer clear of riverbanks, as rising water levels posed additional threats.
The weather-related disruptions extended beyond urban settings. On the A1 Milano-Napoli highway, notable flooding prompted closures between Firenze Scandicci and Firenze Impruneta heading toward Rome. The heavy rains had led to dangerous conditions, particularly at km 291, forcing local authorities to take immediate action.
By 9:00 AM on March 14, the highway was entirely closed, creating 2 km of traffic within the affected section as vehicles were restricted to one lane. For travelers headed from Florence to Rome, they were directed to exit at Firenze Scandicci, navigate through the regular road network, and rejoin the highway at Firenze Impruneta.
Fortunately, by 10:40 AM, the closed section of the A1 was reopened following the flooding incident, though congestion persisted, with traffic jams noted to have decreased to 4 km by this time. Highway officials, along with the police, were on-site to manage the situation effectively and to assist drivers during the ordeal.
Throughout the day, local residents expressed concern over the unpredictable weather. Public sentiment emphasized the importance of preventative measures like these, especially when safety could be at risk. Florence's response showcased the city's proactive approach to protecting public welfare during emergencies caused by severe weather conditions.
These developments serve as reminders of the realities of living within regions prone to extreme weather. Individuals across Florence and its surrounding areas are now more aware of the need to stay informed and heed warnings from local authorities. The city’s swift response to both urban closures and highway conditions highlights the commitment to safeguarding its citizens during environmental crises.
Florence has faced weather challenges before, but the measures enacted on March 14 reflected both the urgency and necessity of prioritizing public safety above all else. With the city's comprehensive planning and management resources, future weather events will likely see continued improvement in how safety protocols are implemented.