Italians are set to experience mild and stable weather until Friday, March 7, but all eyes are on the weekend, as forecasters predict significant changes. According to weather expert Paolo Bonino, sunny conditions will dominate much of the week, with only minor clouds expected over the southern regions and the islands, but these do not pose much risk for rainfall. For the rest of the week, the temperature will be mild, maintaining the feel of early spring.
Looking toward the weekend, the forecast turns ominous. A strong wave of bad weather is expected to sweep across the country starting on the afternoon of Sunday, March 9, and continuing through Monday, March 10. The anticipated storm is not just about rain; it will also bring snowfall to the Alps, making for potentially hazardous conditions.
Recent reports indicate this upcoming storm will introduce heavy rains, particularly affecting the northwestern and central regions of Italy. The convergence of weather models is quite strong on this point: various projections depict significant precipitation over the course of the weekend, starting from the Tirrenian regions before moving eastward. These developments will coincide with the arrival of milder, moist air along the western coast.
"The weather will transition quickly from pleasant to severe, making this weekend particularly noteworthy," Bonino remarked. The intensity of the rain will vary, but the GFS model indicates areas such as Lombardy, eastern Piedmont, Tuscany, lower Trentino, and parts of Friuli Venezia Giulia may experience substantial rainfall accumulations by Sunday evening.
Maps provided by weather models show substantial rainfall is expected. Forecasts suggest areas highlighted in red may receive significantly more rain than usual, leading to localized flooding risk. A portion of central Italy, including Rome, is also on alert for potential thunderstorms.
On Monday, March 10, the rain will persist, with accumulations continuing to impact regions as storm systems shift eastward. The significant challenge during this storm will arise from the interplay between high pressure over the Balkans, which will slow down the storm's forward movement. This resistance will result in prolonged rainfall across many areas, especially those previously mentioned—putting emergency response protocols on high alert.
Snow levels on the Alps are projected to be high, starting around 1500 to 1700 meters, setting the stage for winter sports enthusiasts but demanding caution for travelers and outdoor activities. Although the exact figures could change as the event draws closer, forecasters have indicated the reliability of these predictions sits at approximately 65% as of now.
Residents are urged to keep informed and prepared for the upcoming turbulent weather. This weekend marks the end of the milder weather we've enjoyed, and it is prudent for everyone to take heed of the warnings and forecasts leading up to March 9 and 10.
With the possibility of emergency situations arising from heavy rainfall and localized flooding, the emphasis on safety will be key. Authorities are on standby, ready to respond should the worst of conditions arise.
Overall, the forecast for the weekend of March 9 and 10 is shaping up to be one of significant transformation—from sunny and pleasant beginnings to torrential rains and snow, making it a weekend to watch closely.