Italy's weather split: North faces floods as South swelters in heatwave

Italy is experiencing a stark meteorological divide, with the northern regions bracing for torrential rain and thunderstorms while the rest of the country endures scorching heat. This split is expected to last only until tomorrow, as the northern weather system is forecast to dissipate, leading to a return of oppressive heat across the entire nation.

The Ministry of Health has issued high-risk heat warnings, with the number of cities designated "red zones" for heat risk set to increase from 7 to 15 by tomorrow and 16 by Friday. Meteorologist Lorenzo Tedici of iLMeteo.it predicts temperatures will continue to climb until the weekend, with inland Sardinia potentially reaching 45°C, Nuoro 42°C, and several other cities around 40-41°C. Even high-altitude areas like Castelluccio di Norcia have surpassed 30°C.

A slight reprieve is anticipated by Sunday, with temperatures expected to drop to around 34°C for a period of 5-6 days. Despite this, the current heatwave, considered the third of the year, has prompted the Ministry of Health to convene an emergency meeting to discuss the Operational Plan for the effects of high temperatures. Health Minister Orazio Schillaci has advised the public to avoid going out during the hottest hours.

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The heat and humidity accumulated in the Po Valley will clash with the entry of cool air at altitude from the central-eastern Alps. A combination that will trigger thunderstorms and hailstorms, especially over the Triveneto, but the alert extends to the entire Po Valley and Milan.

The extreme heat is also impacting workers. The Lazio region has banned work in prolonged sun exposure between 12:30 PM and 4 PM. In Milan, a municipal ordinance restricts deliveries during the hottest parts of the day, leading to protests by riders demanding social security. Florence has seen similar protests from riders against low wages and working conditions amidst the extreme heat. Assodelivery, a representative association for the sector, has stated its commitment to implementing measures to protect riders.

Meanwhile, the north is contending with severe weather. Alto Adige experienced heavy rain, strong winds, and hailstorms, requiring 50 interventions by firefighters. Similar phenomena have occurred in the Turin area, particularly in Val di Susa and Val Chisone. The Triveneto and Emilia Romagna regions are particularly threatened by the adverse weather, with meteorologists predicting that the combination of heat, humidity, and cool air from the Alps will trigger intense downpours and hailstorms across the Po Valley, including Milan.

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We will protect the riders from the heat.