Severe weather conditions are wreaking havoc across Northern Italy and Southern Switzerland as authorities have issued a red weather warning due to extreme rainfall and snowfall. As of April 17, 2025, the situation has escalated, prompting concerns for public safety and infrastructure.
In Northern Italy, particularly in the Piedmont region bordering France, heavy rainfall is anticipated to lead to potential flooding. The local government has already taken precautionary measures, advising residents to stay indoors. Pinerolo, a city approximately 60 kilometers from Turin, has seen two bridges closed as a river threatens to overflow its banks. "The region must brace for the worst weather in at least ten years," warned local meteorologists, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Heavy rain is not the only concern, as the Alps are also bracing for significant snowfall. Above 2,200 meters, more than two meters of snow are expected, leading to avalanche warnings in higher altitudes. The Great St. Bernard Tunnel between Switzerland and Italy has been closed to heavy truck traffic due to the anticipated snowfall.
Train services have been severely disrupted, with the Simplon line connecting Italy and Switzerland completely suspended because tracks were submerged under water. Additionally, train traffic on the Domodossola-Milan line was halted after a train carrying 250 passengers had to stop due to flooding on the tracks. Fortunately, the fire department was able to evacuate the passengers safely.
In the areas of South Tyrol, Lombardy, and the Aosta Valley, the rainfall is expected to reach astonishing levels, with forecasts predicting up to 350 millimeters in some regions. The rapid accumulation of water has already led to landslides, with reports of rocks blocking roadways in the Anzasca Valley.
As the weather worsens, stormy conditions are expected to create waves up to three meters high along the Italian coasts of the Mediterranean Sea. The combination of heavy rainfall and strong winds has raised alarms about potential flooding and landslides across the region.
In Switzerland, particularly in the regions of Oberes Mattertal, Oberes Saastal, and the southern Simplon area, code red has also been declared due to persistent rain, which poses significant flooding risks. Local authorities are on high alert as the situation continues to develop.
Emergency services have already responded to several incidents, including the rescue of two individuals from their vehicle after it was swept away by the current in the Dora River in Strambino, a town in the province of Turin. Fortunately, there have been no reports of serious injuries, although two homes in Verbano-Cusio-Ossola have been flooded.
As the storm progresses, the water level of the Po River is rising rapidly and is expected to reach critical levels within the next 24 to 36 hours. This rapid increase in water levels has prompted warnings for residents living near riverbanks and low-lying areas.
The severe weather is attributed to a powerful low-pressure system over the Gulf of Genoa, which is funneling moist air against the southern flank of the Alps, resulting in torrential rain and heavy snowfall. The Italian government has mobilized resources to assist affected areas, and local emergency services are prepared for further evacuations if necessary.
As communities brace for the worst, the focus remains on ensuring public safety and minimizing damage. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and heed warnings as the weather situation continues to evolve.
The extent of the damage caused by these severe weather conditions is still being assessed, but early indications suggest that infrastructure, including roads and railways, has been significantly impacted. The situation is developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
In the meantime, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to prepare for possible evacuations if conditions worsen. The combination of heavy rain, flooding, and potential landslides poses serious risks, and local governments are prioritizing the safety of their communities.
As Northern Italy and Southern Switzerland face these unprecedented weather challenges, the resilience of local populations will be tested. Emergency services are on high alert, ready to respond to any situation that may arise. The coming days will be critical as the region navigates through this severe weather event.
