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Climate & Environment
23 April 2025

Italy Braces For Severe Weather Ahead Of Liberation Day

Thunderstorms and hail expected as instability increases across the country

As Italy prepares for the upcoming Liberation Day on April 25, 2025, the weather forecast indicates a significant shift from the sunny days experienced during the Easter holidays to a period of instability. The Civil Protection has issued a yellow alert for adverse weather conditions starting from 8:00 AM on April 24, indicating that many will face uncertain weather during their outdoor plans for the holiday.

According to meteorologist Alex Guarini from Rai Meteo, instability will begin to develop on the afternoon of April 23. "In the coming hours, showers and thunderstorms are likely, especially in the hilly areas of Gargano, Tavoliere, Monti Dauni, and Murge, with storms potentially reaching the Adriatic coast of Bat and North Barese," Guarini stated. The temperatures are expected to slightly decrease, with highs around 20 degrees Celsius, accompanied by weak winds and calm seas.

The peak of this instability is anticipated on April 24, when thunderstorms will become more prevalent. Guarini noted, "Tomorrow afternoon, after a sunny morning, thunderstorms will develop, particularly in Foggiano, Bat, and North Barese, with some storms possibly resulting in hail. We can expect to hear reports of hail in various areas due to the intense contrasts between the cooler Atlantic air and the afternoon heating."

In the days following, the weather remains unsettled. On April 25 and 26, sunny mornings will be followed by afternoon thunderstorms primarily in central-northern Puglia, including Foggiano, Bat, and North Barese, with less frequent storms in Tarantino, Brindisino, and the province of Lecce. By Sunday, April 27, a clearer day is expected along the Adriatic coast, although some residual afternoon thunderstorms may persist in inland areas and along the Ionian coast.

As Italy grapples with this unstable weather, the situation is not isolated to Puglia. On the same day, Italy is under the influence of a new disturbed weather system that has prompted the Civil Protection to issue a weather alert affecting 15 regions, with criticality levels varying from yellow to orange. The regions most affected include Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, and Veneto, where an orange alert has been issued due to the forecast of heavy rainfall exceeding 70-80 mm in just a few hours.

In these areas, local authorities are particularly concerned about the risk of landslides and flooding, especially since the soil is already saturated from recent rains. The situation is further complicated by the risk of hail, which has been highlighted as a potential threat in these regions. The yellow alert is in effect in several other regions, including Piemonte, Liguria, Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Tuscany, Umbria, Marche, Lazio, Abruzzo, Molise, and Campania, where scattered rain and localized thunderstorms are expected.

Looking ahead, the forecast suggests that the phase of instability will continue into April 24, with particular attention on the Tyrrhenian side and Southern Italy. New rains, thunderstorms, and hail are anticipated in regions such as Tuscany, Lazio, Campania, Basilicata, Calabria, and Sicily. Experts are warning that these increasingly violent and concentrated spring rains are indicative of ongoing climate changes.

The Civil Protection has urged the population to remain vigilant, advising against unnecessary travel and encouraging consultation with local authorities in case of emergencies. It is crucial for residents to avoid areas near watercourses, underpasses, or zones at risk of flooding. Emergency teams are on standby to respond to any incidents, ensuring community safety.

In the words of a meteorological expert, "The climate is changing, and we must adapt. Preparation is essential." For real-time updates and useful information, the official Civil Protection website is available for consultation.

As the weather conditions evolve, it is clear that Italy is facing a challenging period. The arrival of a cold drop, predicted to isolate itself in the Mediterranean, is set to bring strong thunderstorms and hail, creating a turbulent atmosphere for the country. Meteorologists have indicated that the days to watch closely are April 23 and 24, when the worst of the weather will hit.

The instability is expected to peak on April 24, with intense thunderstorms likely in the Northeast and along the Apennine ridge of the Center and South. Meanwhile, the weather in the Northwest is forecasted to improve. However, the situation will remain unstable, with thunderstorms potentially affecting the entire country.

On April 25, as Italy celebrates Liberation Day, the second weather disturbance is expected to sweep across the country, initially impacting the Northeast before extending to much of the Center-South. Despite the rapid movement of this system, it is likely to bring about instability, particularly in the Center-North, with a mix of sun, clouds, and thunderstorms expected throughout the day.

In summary, the upcoming days will require careful attention as Italy navigates through this period of weather instability. With the potential for severe thunderstorms, hail, and heavy rainfall, residents are advised to stay informed and prepared as they plan their activities during this holiday period.