On April 17, 2025, Northern Italy is grappling with severe weather conditions as a significant disturbance brings heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, particularly in the Piedmont region. This weather system is characterized by cloudy skies with extensive rain expected across all northern regions, with the most intense downpours predicted in the Piedmont Alps.
The situation has worsened since the previous evening due to a deepening Atlantic low-pressure system affecting the central-western Mediterranean. This atmospheric instability has resulted in strong sirocco winds at altitude and easterly currents at lower levels, maintaining high atmospheric instability, according to reports from Il Meteo.
As of 8:30 AM, authorities are closely monitoring the Po River, which is approaching danger levels at critical points like San Sebastiano and Crescentino. Forecasts indicate that the river will exceed critical thresholds in locations such as Valenza and Isola Sant’Antonio. Heavy rainfall has been reported throughout the Milan area, alongside persistent precipitation in northern Piedmont and Valle d'Aosta. In the Verbano-Cusio-Ossola area, two landslides have forced the evacuation of 30 residents and disrupted the railway line leading to Switzerland.
In Pinerolo, two bridges were closed due to the swelling of the Lemina stream. The entire Piedmont region remains under a red alert, with 87 mm of rain recorded in Valsessera. The impact of the storm has led to various emergencies, including the rescue of two individuals trapped in their car due to flooding in Strambino. In Giaveno, two families were evacuated due to a landslide, while in Tollegno, a woman sustained injuries when a tree fell on her vehicle.
As the storm progresses, a train carrying 250 passengers was halted due to flooding in the Biellese area, and railway connections between Domodossola and Milan, as well as on the Sempione line, have been interrupted. The levels of several watercourses and Lake Maggiore have risen beyond alert thresholds, raising concerns about potential flooding.
Weather forecasts predict that heavy rainfall will continue throughout the day, with snow expected at elevations above 1500-2000 meters in the western Alps. The situation remains critical, especially in the Piedmont and Valle d'Aosta regions, where intense rain is anticipated from early morning.
In central Italy, conditions are somewhat variable, with periods of sunshine and clouds. The Adriatic regions and south-central Lazio are expected to experience ample clearings, while Tuscany may see occasional rain in its western parts. Temperatures in these areas remain above normal, with moderate sirocco winds affecting the seas.
Southern Italy will also face variable cloudiness, with the possibility of brief scattered showers in the Ionian areas. Sicily is expected to have alternating variable cloudiness and clearings, with brief showers not ruled out. In Sardinia, the forecast calls for very cloudy skies with widespread rain and decreasing temperatures.
The severe weather has raised alarms across multiple regions, prompting local authorities to activate emergency measures. In the Vercellese area, the mayor of Borgosesia has issued an urgent ordinance to clear vehicles from areas near the Sesia River due to rising water levels. The Civil Protection, Red Cross, and local police have been mobilized to ensure community safety, with emergency shelters established in municipal gyms for residents seeking refuge.
As the weather system continues to affect the region, the latest updates from Il Meteo indicate that the intense rainfall could lead to significant criticalities, especially in the northern areas, where accumulations of over 200 mm are possible within 48 hours. The ongoing rainfall is expected to exacerbate existing conditions, with risks of flooding, landslides, and other weather-related emergencies.
In summary, Northern Italy is enduring a challenging weather event characterized by heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds, with authorities on high alert to manage the situation and protect residents. As the storm unfolds, continuous updates will be provided to keep the public informed about the evolving conditions and necessary precautions.
