The Italian region of Tuscany is once again under the grip of severe weather, leading to substantial disruptions across the area. An orange alert for severe weather has been declared for the north-central part of Tuscany, effective from the early hours of Saturday, March 22, 2025, through the end of the day. This alert covers a wide range of municipalities, affecting numerous schools and forcing precautionary evacuations.
Authorities have closed schools in 24 municipalities, including Livorno, where all educational activities have been suspended. Livorno’s mayor has taken precautionary measures, including shutting down municipal daycare centers and restricting access to parks and cemeteries. Schools are also closed in Empoli, Seravezza, Aulla, and many other locations across the region, impacting a significant number of children and families.
The orange alert encompasses several areas such as the rivers Arno, Bisenzio, Ombrone Pistoiese, Serchio, and Reno, as well as regions like Valdelsa, Valdera, Lunigiana, and Versilia. Alongside the orange alert, a yellow alert for hydrogeological risks and thunderstorms has been issued for the remaining parts of the region.
Weather forecasts predict widespread rain and thunderstorms beginning early Saturday, particularly intense in the Valdarno area and along rivers like the Ombrone Pistoiese and Bisenzio. Anticipated wind gusts of up to 60-80 km/h on Friday, March 21, and 50-60 km/h on the southern coast and neighbouring archipelagos raise further safety concerns.
As the situation escalates, officials recommend that residents limit unnecessary travel and stay cautious, especially near waterways that could overflow. A spokesperson from the regional weather service noted, "This precautionary measure reflects the ongoing vulnerability of our territory due to the recent weather events we have endured. We are prioritizing the safety and security of our residents."
In the mountainous area of Marradi, located close to the Emilia Romagna border, Mayor Tommaso Triberti has ordered the evacuation of around 70 residents due to safety concerns. He explained, "This decision stems from our awareness of how fragile our territory is at this moment. We believe it is necessary to safeguard lives before the arrival of the new wave of adverse weather." Temporary shelters for the evacuated residents have already been established.
Further up the coast, municipalities such as Viareggio have closed public parks, as well as sports facilities, due to the adverse conditions. The situation has forced the cancellation of outdoor events scheduled for that weekend, adding to the list of disruptions facing the region.
In some areas, like Carrara, schools are closed alongside the cancellation of local markets and sporting events. Similarly, towns in the Empolese-Valdelsa district – which encompasses a range of municipalities like Fucecchio, Certaldo, and Montelupo Fiorentino – have taken unified action to shut down schools, suspending both outdoor and indoor sports activities while also halting local public transport services.
Bernardo Gozzini of Lamma, a regional weather monitoring agency, provided some hope amidst the chaos, indicating a potential reduction in rain forecasts for March 24-26, 2025. He said, "Compared to earlier predictions, we are seeing a promising decrease in rainfall for early next week, which might ease some of the ongoing difficulties our residents are facing. However, this weekend, we must remain vigilant as severe weather impacts the area."
The heightened weather conditions have resulted in substantial challenges for local authorities, who must navigate the safety of their residents while managing widespread closures. In Livorno, for example, the local government has emphasized the need for public caution, urging residents to remain updated via official channels and adhere to safety recommendations.
The regional Civil Protection has taken extensive preventive measures, advising residents to avoid unnecessary movements and to stay away from basements, near trees, and waterways during this dangerous weather period. With these measures, it is hoped that the risks posed by flooding and landslides can be minimized as much as possible.
The ongoing situation in Tuscany highlights the impact of severe weather on infrastructure, community activities, and public services, showcasing how crucial it is for emergency services and meteorological authorities to collaborate effectively to ensure public safety in challenging times. As many prepare for the harsh conditions ahead, the affected regions remain on high alert while awaiting the evolving developments in weather conditions.
Communities affected by these warnings are coming together to support each other, sharing updates and ensuring that resources are available for those who find themselves in need. As local governments tackle these unprecedented weather challenges, the hope is that, with cooperation and vigilance, they can guide their residents through this tumultuous time.