Unseasonal Snowfall Hits Northern Italy, Meteorologists Warn of Severe Weather Conditions
Italy is poised to experience unseasonably severe winter weather starting this weekend, with significant snowfall expected across Northern regions, even at low elevations. Following weeks of stable, above-average temperatures, cold air masses are set to sweep down from Russia, colliding with warmer conditions from the Mediterranean. Meteorologists predict this clash will lead to rain and snow over several areas of the country.
According to 3BMeteo, residents can anticipate heavy precipitation, including snow as low as 500 meters, particularly affecting regions like Piemonte and Liguria. Meteorologist Edoardo Ferrara conveyed, "A typically winter weekend is expected for the northern regions of Italy, with rain and snow starting as early as Friday evening." This weather event marks the return of winter after a surprisingly mild January and early February, which featured temperatures over the norm, primarily due to the influence of the Azores High.
The forecast calls for snowfall particularly concentrated on the hills between Piemonte and Liguria and the plains around cities such as Cuneo, Alba, and Asti, with possible sporadic snow even reaching metropolitan Torino. Meanwhile, areas such as Lombardia are also bracing for cold, with snowfall expected at altitudes between 700 to 1000 meters, though lower elevations might also experience light snow due to local conditions.
Over the weekend, snow is anticipated to spread across several parts of Northern Italy, emphasizing regions like Bologna where temperatures are forecast to drop. Meteorologist Roberto Nanni from Arpae noted, "Starting on February 7, colder conditions will return, likely leading to low-altitude snowfall across the western Alps and possibly the Apennines." He explains this weather shift stems from two opposing cyclonic systems: one drawing cold air from the east and another pushing moist air from the North African region.
On Saturday and Sunday, residents can expect conditions described as wintry, characterized by snow and cold rains throughout central-northern Italy. Areas near the coast, especially the Tyrrhenian region and major islands, will see heavy rainfall. This overarching cold front is anticipated to influence not just the north but also the southern portions of the country, where storm conditions may persist.
The current weather turmoil serves as a reminder of how quickly conditions can change, as previous unseasonable warmth led to assumptions of early spring. Lorenzo Tedici, another noted meteorologist from iLMeteo, emphasizes the significance of this shift, stating, "The Azores High will split, allowing cold continental air masses to sweep downward, resulting in significant instability across the country this weekend." Tedici predicts considerable snowfall could accumulate, particularly across the northwestern regions, proposing accumulations might reach 20-40 centimeters on higher peaks and even lower elevations during the peak of the storm.
Reports indicate this sudden weather shift may not just be temporary but could signal the return of longer, harsher winter conditions. Temperatures have already started to decline as the anticipated cold front approaches. Nanni added, "The situation from February 7 onward will likely lead to persistent cold and remains to be confirmed as low-altitude snowfalls become more prevalent." He warns residents to stay vigilant, as winter isn't done yet and may still surprise.
Residents of Northern Italy should prepare for challenging weather conditions, ensuring they have adequate supplies and travel plans adjusted to accommodate potential snowfall and road disruptions. Forecasters are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as the weather develops, but the first indications suggest the winter season is making its entrance just when people thought it was over.