Severe weather conditions are expected to persist across Italy, particularly as the country approaches Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. The Civil Protection Department has issued multiple weather alerts, including red and orange warnings for hydraulic risks in several regions, particularly in Emilia-Romagna and Lombardy.
On Sunday, April 20, 2025, a red alert was declared for hydraulic risk in the Po plains of the Emilia provinces of Piacenza, Parma, and Reggio Emilia. This high level of alert is due to the anticipated heavy rainfall, which has already led to flooding concerns. The alert highlights the potential for significant flooding and landslides across these areas as rivers swell beyond their banks.
Additionally, an orange alert has been issued for hydraulic risk in the provinces of Ferrara, Piacenza, and Parma, while a yellow alert is in place for thunderstorms across various regions, including Bologna and Rimini. The Civil Protection's bulletin indicates that strong thunderstorms are likely, particularly in the central-western sector of Emilia-Romagna, raising fears of landslides in vulnerable areas.
Looking ahead to Easter Monday, the situation is expected to worsen, with the highest criticality remaining in the Reggio Emilia plain. The Civil Protection has warned that the Po River's flood levels could reach alarming heights, with predictions suggesting levels near or exceeding threshold 3 in the central-western plains. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and prepared for potential evacuations.
In Lombardy, the red alert for hydraulic risk covers the eastern and central-eastern low plains, where flooding could disrupt local communities. The Civil Protection has urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and to remain indoors during peak rainfall hours. A yellow alert for hydrogeological risk has also been declared in various areas, including Valchiavenna and the lakes region.
Meanwhile, in Piedmont, a significant landslide occurred on the evening of April 19, 2025, in the small town of Beura, where approximately 30,000 cubic meters of rocks and stones collapsed, fortunately without causing injuries. This incident has added to the concerns about geological stability in the region, especially with ongoing precipitation.
In Sardinia, a yellow weather alert for hydraulic and hydrogeological risk has been issued, particularly affecting Cagliari and the Pirri area. Residents are advised against parking in low-lying streets prone to flooding, including Balilla and its side streets. The Civil Protection has recommended relocating vehicles to safer areas, such as the Terramaini swimming pool parking lot.
The forecast for the island indicates widespread rainfall, with localized showers and thunderstorms expected to affect inland and mountainous regions. The yellow alert in Sicily warns of minor critical issues related to flooding and landslides, with the Civil Protection advising caution near rivers and streams.
As the holiday weekend approaches, the weather is expected to remain unsettled, with ongoing risks of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across many regions. The Civil Protection has emphasized the importance of monitoring local weather updates and adhering to safety guidelines to minimize risks during the celebrations.
In summary, as Italy braces for a tumultuous Easter Monday, the Civil Protection's alerts serve as a crucial reminder of the potential dangers posed by severe weather. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed and prepared as they navigate the challenges of the holiday weekend amid adverse weather conditions.
