As of April 17, 2025, heavy thunderstorms are threatening Lake Garda, Italy, with meteorologists warning of severe weather conditions, including floods and landslides. Since the previous weekend, the region has been grappling with intense rainfall, and the situation shows no signs of improvement. Travelers heading to the area for the Easter holiday are urged to stay vigilant and prepared for potentially dangerous weather.
According to a report from wetter.com, a low-pressure system that was initially active in southern France and the Alpine regions has now fully shifted to northern Italy. The areas surrounding Lake Garda, Lake Como, and parts of South Tyrol are particularly affected, with rainfall amounts expected to reach up to 250 liters per square meter in some locations. The snow line currently hovers between 1,400 and 2,500 meters, depending on the area.
Meteorologist Gernot Schütz emphasized that the region is "completely in the precipitation zone," indicating that while South Tyrol might not experience the highest rainfall totals, it is still expected to see between 80 and 150 liters of rain per square meter—sufficient to trigger local flooding and landslides.
The weather forecast for Lake Garda predicts a maximum temperature of 16 degrees Celsius with heavy rain on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, followed by slightly warmer temperatures of up to 18 degrees on Wednesday, April 16, accompanied by light rain and scattered showers. Despite a brief reprieve in the weather, travelers are advised to remain cautious.
Recent days have seen roads closed and campsites shut down due to the heavy rain, with even tornado sightings reported, though thankfully without significant damage. The region's coast guard has increased monitoring efforts, ensuring that tourists are regularly informed about current weather conditions.
The geographical positioning of Lake Garda, nestled between the Alps and the Po Valley, predisposes it to rapid weather changes. The ongoing climate crisis further exacerbates these shifts, with rising temperatures and altered rainfall patterns leading to more extreme weather events.
In Bardolino, a town on the shores of Lake Garda, authorities have implemented fines for unauthorized entry into certain zones, adding another layer of caution for visitors. As the Easter weekend approaches, there is a glimmer of hope: forecasts suggest that weather conditions may stabilize, with friendlier and drier weather expected beginning Good Friday, potentially bringing temperatures up to 19 degrees Celsius.
However, those camping or vacationing near rivers and lakes are strongly advised to take precautions. Schütz warned, "I would not camp or pitch tents near rivers and lakes, as it could become dangerous." Additionally, shipping on Lake Garda may be disrupted due to strong winds and high waves, so those relying on ferry services should stay updated on the latest conditions.
As the rainy weather continues to dominate, travelers in northern and central Italy must remain alert. The Italian weather service, Meteo.it, has issued a red alert for parts of northern Italy, particularly the regions between Turin and Milan. This area is particularly vulnerable to flooding due to its flat topography, which allows rivers to overflow rapidly.
Heavy rainfall is expected to persist until Good Friday, with some areas forecasted to receive as much as 200 to 300 liters per square meter, particularly in the Piedmont region, north of Turin. The situation is compounded by the presence of multiple low-pressure systems drawing moist air from the Mediterranean, resulting in torrential downpours.
In the southern part of the Western Alps, significant snowfall is also anticipated, with up to two or three meters of new snow possible at elevations above 2,000 meters. This increase in snowfall raises avalanche risks, further complicating the weather situation.
While there may be occasional showers over the Easter weekend, the sun is expected to make appearances, providing some relief from the relentless rain. However, travelers are advised to check for potential damage in their holiday destinations due to the heavy rainfall.
For those planning to travel to Italy during this period, it’s crucial to stay informed about the weather conditions and any potential changes to travel plans. The German weather portal wetter.de warns that the continuous rain will be intensified by embedded thunderstorm cells, leading to what are known as stationary precipitation events where rain is "squeezed out" at the Alps, resulting in extreme rainfall amounts.
Meteorologist Dominik Jung has cautioned that fatalities cannot be ruled out due to the severe weather conditions, particularly for those camping in vulnerable areas. He urges travelers to choose well-drained campsites and to monitor weather warnings closely. In light of the unpredictable weather, it is advisable for travelers to remain flexible with their plans and to prioritize safety above all.
For those currently on vacation in areas affected by extreme weather, it is essential to stay in contact with travel agencies and accommodations. Travelers on package holidays should reach out to their tour operators for guidance and support, especially if severe weather disrupts their travel plans.
In summary, as the weather in northern and central Italy remains unstable, with heavy thunderstorms, floods, and landslides expected, tourists are urged to exercise caution. The situation is evolving, and staying informed is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday.
