A significant weather shift is set to transform conditions across Northwest Italy this weekend, as the region braces for the arrival of snowfall at lower altitudes. According to weather forecasts from various meteorological services, including 3BMeteo, the pleasant and sunny days will soon give way to wintery conditions, starting Friday, February 7.
The forecast indicates the entry of cold air from Eastern Europe, combined with humid winds from North Africa, which will collide over Northwest Italy, particularly affecting the regions of Piemonte, Liguria, and Valle d'Aosta. This atmospheric interaction is expected to lead to widespread precipitation throughout the weekend.
On Friday, February 7, mild conditions will persist initially, but the weather is expected to turn by evening. Light snow showers are anticipated on the Alps, particularly at low elevations along the northern regions. Temperatures will dip, with maximums between 6 and 10 degrees Celsius. According to the 3BMeteo report, “La virata verso il maltempo scatterà proprio in concomitanza del fine settimana...” signaling the imminent change.
By Saturday, February 8, the forecast indicates more pronounced snowfall across the region, especially in Piemonte where snow could fall down to the plains. With maximum temperatures dropping to between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius, the cold air visualizes the potential for snow and widespread rain showers across the areas adjacent to the northern coast. The meteo report elaborates on this impending situation: "Sabato il maltempo colpirà..." really encapsulating the anticipated dramatic change.
Specifically, forecasts suggest rainy and snowy conditions; the snow may reach as low as 600 to1000 meters, primarily affecting the lower hills and flatlands of the northern provinces. Meteorological models suggest significant snowfall could impact visibility and travel, making it necessary for residents and travelers alike to prepare adequately.
Moving to Sunday, February 9, forecasts predict continued unsettled weather, with some rain and snow still likely but with slight improvements as the day progresses. The precipitation patterns suggest the snowfall will taper off, and some sunshine may filter through later. Still, residual snowflakes will maintain the wintery atmosphere prevalent across Northwest Italy, with temperatures expected to rise slightly, reaching maximums of 8 to 12 degrees Celsius.
State of preparation and alertness is advised, as varying precipitation could lead to disruptions over the weekend. Reports advise people to remain cautious, especially if engaging with outdoor activities or traveling during this snowy spell. Weather experts have characterized February as “dispettoso,” illustrating the month’s notorious inconsistency and unpredictability.
The professional assessment warns against assumptions of early spring weather, emphasizing the cold air mass from Scandinavia's high-pressure zones is likely to sustain the high-altitude winter conditions for longer periods. A continual northward drift of cold fronts will see temperatures plunge and keep the region under firm winter dominance.
Weather specialists remain vigilant as the weekend progresses, with updates continually provided as conditions develop. The public is encouraged to stay informed via local news and regional weather services like Arpa Lombardia, which is actively monitoring and reporting on these meteorological changes. The regional office has indicated, “da domani, venerdì 7 febbraio, dovrebbe aumentare la nuvolosità e durante la giornata potrebbero esserci deboli nevicate...“ reiterates the concerns for the forthcoming weather pattern.
Overall, as temperatures fall, conditions favor not only snowfall but also significant weather phenomena which may burden the networks of transportation and emergency services. Maintaining awareness and caution will be key for residents and travelers throughout this winter weekend, as Italy’s Northwest region braces for what might be one of its colder spells of the season.