Italy is bracing for severe weather conditions as Storm Hans approaches, with the Aeronautica Militare issuing a weather alert for intense phenomena on April 15, 2025. The storm is expected to bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and thunderstorms, particularly affecting the North-West regions of the country.
According to the official warning released by the Aeronautica Militare at 14:00 on April 15, strong winds from the southern quadrants will persist for the next 48 to 60 hours, with gale-force gusts expected over Puglia. Coastal areas are also at risk of storm surges due to the impending storm.
Starting from the early hours of April 16, 2025, intense and abundant rainfall is forecasted for Valle d’Aosta and Piedmont, lasting for 36 to 42 hours. The central-northern sector of Piedmont is predicted to experience exceptional rainfall accumulations, raising concerns about potential hydrogeological risks due to already saturated soils and rising water levels.
In Lombardy, the weather will deteriorate further in the afternoon of April 16, with heavy showers and thunderstorms expected to last for at least 30 hours, particularly in the western sector. Meanwhile, western Emilia-Romagna will see intense weather phenomena, but of a shorter duration, approximately 12 hours.
As the storm progresses, strong southeasterly winds with gale-force gusts are anticipated along the exposed coasts of Calabria and Sicily starting from the early hours of April 16. The winds will intensify in central-southern Lazio, the Abruzzo hills, Campania, and Basilicata in the afternoon, bringing further storm surges.
These thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by electrical activity and strong wind gusts, conditions that could lead to damage to structures, traffic disruptions, and service interruptions. The combination of the intensity and persistence of the rainfall poses a significant risk, particularly in the North-West regions, where authorities are urging residents to exercise caution near rivers, unstable slopes, and flood-prone areas.
The Civil Protection Department has classified the weather alert as yellow in Umbria, Tuscany, and Emilia-Romagna, while an orange alert has been issued for the more severely affected regions of Piedmont, Valle d’Aosta, Lombardy, and Sardinia. This classification indicates the potential for significant adverse weather effects and underscores the need for preparedness among residents in these areas.
In addition, the rapid deepening of an Atlantic trough over the western Mediterranean is expected to exacerbate the weather conditions, leading to further complications as the storm moves through the region. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.
As Italy faces this challenging weather event, local authorities and emergency services are on high alert, ready to respond to any incidents that may arise. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
In summary, the impending arrival of Storm Hans is set to bring a significant weather change to Italy, particularly affecting the North-West regions. With heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the potential for severe thunderstorms, the situation calls for vigilance and preparedness among the affected populations.
