Severe weather conditions have gripped southern Switzerland and northern Italy, leading authorities to issue a Code Red alert due to extreme precipitation. As of April 17, 2025, the situation has escalated to dangerous levels, prompting officials to close several roads and railways, including key connections between Italy and Switzerland.
In the northwest Italian region of Piedmont, residents have been advised to stay home as heavy rainfall causes flooding and landslides. The Simplon line, a major train route linking Italy and Switzerland, has been halted due to flooded tracks, leaving several trains stranded. The authorities have warned of strong gusts, floods, and landslides as the region braces for more severe weather.
According to reports, the Po River has reached its warning level, indicating an imminent risk of overflow. In the Italian municipality of Monteu da Po, a tragic incident occurred where a 92-year-old man was found dead in his flooded home, with initial findings suggesting he drowned. This incident highlights the severe impact of the ongoing weather crisis.
In Pinerolo, a city located approximately 60 kilometers from Turin, local officials have closed two bridges due to the threat of a river overflowing. The local government has also advised residents to remain indoors as landslides have cut off access to two nearby hamlets. This area is particularly vulnerable during the Easter holiday season, which typically sees a surge in visitors.
Authorities in the Swiss canton of Valais are also facing significant challenges. Reports indicate that extreme snowfall has blanketed the region, with local media stating that up to 100 centimeters of snow has fallen in just 24 hours. This has resulted in many roads becoming impassable, and power outages have affected numerous villages.
The famous railway line to the popular ski resort of Zermatt has been blocked by snow, and the Great St. Bernard Tunnel has also been closed. As a precaution, officials have warned tourists to avoid the area during the Easter weekend.
In addition to the flooding and snow, stormy waves of up to three meters are expected along the Italian coasts in the Mediterranean Sea. The forecast predicts continued heavy rain throughout the day, particularly in northern Italy, while the southern region of Apulia is also bracing for significant rainfall.
In Switzerland, the situation is similarly dire. The meteorological services have warned of avalanche risks, with authorities in Wallis, Bern, and Ticino raising the avalanche alert to the second-highest level. The heavy snowfall has caused disruptions to the electricity network and transport systems, with around 4,000 families reported to be without power in some areas.
In the French Alps, heavy snowfall has compounded the issues, with up to 120 centimeters recorded overnight. This has led to major disruptions in the regional train network and has prompted authorities to issue an orange alert for avalanches in the Savoie department due to the heavy snow accumulation.
As the severe weather continues to unfold, residents across the affected regions are urged to remain vigilant and heed the advice of local authorities. The combination of heavy rainfall and significant snowfall poses a serious risk to safety, with officials emphasizing the importance of staying indoors and avoiding unnecessary travel.
Tourism, a vital industry in these regions, is facing significant challenges as well. Popular holiday destinations like South Tyrol, Lombardy, and Tuscany are affected by the weather conditions, which could deter visitors during the crucial Easter holiday period.
As the situation develops, authorities are closely monitoring the weather patterns and are prepared to implement further safety measures as needed. The public is advised to stay informed through official channels and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety amid the ongoing severe weather.
In summary, the severe weather affecting southern Switzerland and northern Italy is a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability. With authorities on high alert, residents and visitors alike are urged to prioritize safety as they navigate the challenges posed by flooding, landslides, and heavy snowfall.
