Severe storm system approaches Italy, threatening floods and high winds

Authorities warn of significant rainfall, strong winds, and potential coastal flooding as Italy faces days of turbulent weather.

Italy is bracing for severe weather as a powerful cyclone develops over the Mediterranean, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas. Beginning March 26, 2025, meteorologists warn that Southern Italy and its islands, including Sicily and Sardinia, will experience the brunt of the storm, with residents advised to take necessary precautions.

According to MeteoGiuliacci, some regions could see extreme rainfall, with up to 100 liters per square meter falling in just a few hours. Authorities have issued weather alerts for Abruzzo, Puglia, Basilicata, Campania, Calabria, and Sicily, urging residents to remain cautious as conditions deteriorate.

Forecasters attribute the cyclone’s formation to colliding air masses over Italy, creating an unstable atmosphere that could lead to violent storms, hail, and flash flooding. "This weather system is fostering an interaction between different air masses, triggering extreme events such as torrential rain and hailstorms," noted MeteoGiuliacci.


Winds will also intensify, especially across the Apennine regions of Calabria and Sicily, where speeds may exceed 80 km/h. The Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas are expected to become dangerously rough, with waves surpassing 3 meters and storm surges threatening coastal areas. The Bora wind will also affect the Adriatic, reaching speeds of 60 km/h.

As the cyclone continues to develop, meteorologists anticipate a second wave of severe weather on March 29, 2025. During this period, Sardinia could see gusts as strong as 110 km/h, further heightening concerns over flooding, infrastructure damage, and travel disruptions.


The unstable conditions are already taking hold, as a low-pressure system influences Italy’s weather. Over the coming days, dense cloud cover will spread across Umbria and the Apennines, increasing the likelihood of scattered showers and thunderstorms. The Civil Protection has issued a yellow alert in response to the deteriorating weather.

March 26 is expected to bring a mix of partly cloudy skies and sporadic showers, particularly in eastern and southern Umbria. Temperatures will gradually decline as moderate north-easterly winds strengthen, especially in mountainous areas.

Meteorologists are closely monitoring the evolving situation, as a fresh surge of cold air from the northwest is expected to reinforce the cyclone, sustaining instability and prolonging adverse weather conditions. Additional rain and storms are likely in the following days, particularly in the Apennine regions and along Italy’s eastern corridor.

Given the potential for severe disruptions, emergency services urge the public to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel, and secure outdoor belongings. Weather authorities emphasize the importance of heeding official forecasts and safety recommendations to minimize risks posed by the approaching storm.

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