On April 1, 2025, schools across 25 municipalities in eastern Sicily will be closed due to severe weather warnings, particularly in Catania, where the mayor has issued precautionary measures in response to an orange weather alert. The regional Civil Protection has warned of expected thunderstorms and heavy downpours that could pose risks to safety and infrastructure.
Mayor Enrico Trantino announced the closure of schools in Catania through a Facebook post, expressing regret over the decision but emphasizing the necessity for safety. "I am always sorry to close schools with the orange alert, understanding what problems it creates for families. But in light of the information we have received, heavy rainfall is expected from 12:00 which induces us to the utmost caution," he stated. Along with school closures, cemeteries, municipal parks, and the Bellini Garden will also be closed.
In addition to Catania, 24 other municipalities in the Messina Ionian strip, including Taormina, Giardini Naxos, and Aci Catena, will also suspend school activities. The mayors of these towns have echoed the concerns raised by Trantino, urging residents to exercise caution and limit unnecessary travel. The list of municipalities affected includes notable locations such as Forza d'Agrò, Savoca, and Roccalumera.
The weather forecast indicates that the northern and eastern sectors of Sicily will experience intense thunderstorms, with the potential for violent showers and strong gusts of wind. The Civil Protection's alert warns of flooding risks and advises citizens to avoid areas prone to water accumulation and landslides. Mayor Trantino also noted the precarious condition of local roads due to recent rains, highlighting the need for caution while traveling.
"We recommend to citizens the utmost attention. Specifically, they should limit non-essential travel and avoid stopping near watercourses or in flood-prone areas," said Trantino. Similar advisories have been issued by other mayors in the region, including Leo Cantarella of Giarre, who also ordered the closure of public parks and sports facilities.
In Catania, the municipal government has taken additional measures to ensure public safety, including limiting the use of cars and mopeds. Residents are advised to move only for essential reasons and to take necessary precautions when walking or using public transport. The mayor's office has urged citizens to stay clear of unstable structures and trees, which could pose hazards during strong winds.
The orange alert, which signifies a moderate level of risk, has prompted local authorities to act decisively. The Civil Protection has forecasted that the bad weather will begin early in the morning, with significant precipitation expected throughout the day. This has led to a wave of school closures across the region, with many mayors taking proactive steps to protect their communities.
In addition to Catania and the surrounding municipalities, the Civil Protection has also issued a yellow alert for several other regions in Italy, including parts of Abruzzo, Molise, and Calabria. This indicates a lower level of risk but still requires vigilance from local authorities and residents alike.
As the weather system approaches, local governments are preparing for potential impacts on public safety and infrastructure. Construction companies have been instructed to check the stability of scaffolding and other structures at building sites, ensuring that they can withstand severe weather conditions.
The decision to close schools is not taken lightly, as it affects families and students across the region. However, safety remains the top priority for local officials. As Trantino noted, "I would hope that our children would dedicate no more than an hour to the useless waste of time on social media and a little time to reading. This is a great opportunity to engage with literature and learning during this unexpected break from school."
As the day unfolds, residents are encouraged to stay informed about the weather conditions and adhere to the guidelines set forth by local authorities. The situation will be monitored closely, with updates provided as necessary to ensure public safety.
In summary, the closure of schools across eastern Sicily on April 1, 2025, reflects a broader response to the severe weather forecasted for the region. With the safety of students and residents at the forefront, local governments are taking proactive measures to mitigate risks associated with the impending storms. As weather conditions develop, community members are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize their safety.
