Residents of Tuscany are preparing for significant weather disruptions as strong storms are predicted to hit the region on Saturday, March 22, 2025. An orange alert has been issued for various localities, prompting school closures and preventive measures in several municipalities.
The Centro Funzionale Regionale has released a detailed weather warning for the entire region, indicating that from 00:00 to 07:00 on March 22, a yellow alert for hydrogeological and hydraulic risks will be in effect. Following that, an orange alert will take over from 07:00 to 23:59, emphasizing the potential severity of the upcoming storms, particularly in northern Tuscany where substantial rain and thunderstorms are anticipated.
Schools, cemeteries, and public sports facilities throughout the Empolese-Valdelsa area, including towns such as Empoli, Montelupo, and Capraia e Limite, will be closed in response to the alert. Notably, municipalities like Livorno, Pistoia, and Calenzano have also declared school closures for all grades, along with the suspension of activities in parks and public spaces.
Firenze’s mayor, Sara Funaro, stated that the orange alert represents a normal warning compared to the recent red alert earlier in the week, confirming that schools would remain open that day. However, local authorities in surrounding areas made different decisions based on their specific circumstances and anticipated risks.
In Livorno, all educational activities will be suspended along with the closure of city parks and cemeteries. “We urge residents to limit travel and exercise caution due to the heightened risks associated with heavy rainfall,” local officials stated.
The forecast estimates widespread rainfall with accumulations reaching up to 30-40 mm in certain areas, with expected heavy downpours potentially exceeding these projections. Wind gusts are also forecasted to reach significant speeds, with warnings of Scirocco winds between 50-60 km/h affecting the coastal regions and archipelago.
The heightened alert comes as authorities remain cautious due to previously existing vulnerabilities in the area caused by previous weather disruptions. Regions that suffered from landslides last week are particularly susceptible, with active landslide warnings still in place.
To assist residents, the COC (Centro Operativo Comunale) will operate in conjunction with the onset of the orange alert, providing updates and emergency services to those affected. Residents are encouraged to report any significant incidents or concerns through designated communication lines.
In nearby Seravezza and other municipalities, similar closures are being enacted. Seravezza has closed schools and will restrict vehicular and pedestrian traffic on certain roads due to previous landslide concerns. Public spaces such as cemeteries will also be shut for safety reasons.
The response reflects a varied approach across the region, as towns implement safety measures based on local risk assessments. “Each municipality is responding according to its needs; we encourage residents to stay informed and heed local advice,” a regional spokesperson noted.
The public is advised to monitor announcements from local governments and emergency services, particularly through the alert system which will disseminate warnings via recorded messages to ensure residents are adequately informed about safety measures and risks.
As the day progresses on March 22, weather conditions are expected to evolve, with meteorologists predicting that monitoring will continue as long as necessary to avoid casualties and manage response efforts.
This significant weather advisory serves as a stark reminder of the need for preparedness in the face of unpredictable weather phenomena. Residents are encouraged to ensure their emergency supplies are stocked and to consider travel plans seriously in light of the impending storms. The situation is volatile, and weather forecasts remain dynamic, reflecting the need for constant vigilance.
Overall, this weather alert is a testament to the collaborative effort among local governments to safeguard their communities while emphasizing the need for individual responsibility during such emergency situations.