The fourth heatwave that hit Italy with extreme temperatures is beginning to recede. A front of instability will bring storms, hail, and a significant thermal drop to the coastal regions.
The African anticyclone, responsible for the sweltering peaks exceeding 40 degrees in the islands and southern Italy, is losing strength definitively. A mass of cold air is advancing from the north and promises to change the weather scenario in the coming hours, with a strong presence of storms and hail.
According to Italian meteorological services, the change will be abrupt. The coastal regions, which have endured weeks of extreme heat, will be the first to notice the thermal drop. Intense gusts of wind and locally heavy rainfall are expected, with possible hail in areas of the centre and south.
Storms and hail: the end of the fourth heatwave
The fourth heatwave of the season gives way to an atmospheric instability that will particularly affect the regions of the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic seas. Models indicate that the storms could be locally severe, with significant rainfall accumulations in a few hours.
Hail is one of the most prominent threats, especially in areas of inland Campania, Calabria, and Sicily. Authorities recommend caution against possible flash floods and damage to crops.
For residents and tourists on the Italian coasts, the change means thermal relief, but also a warning: storms can be sudden. It is advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak instability and secure objects that could be displaced by the wind.
Thermal drop: up to 10 degrees less in 24 hours
The contrast between the warm air mass and the cold front will cause a drop in temperatures of up to 10 degrees in some areas. Cities like Rome, Naples, and Palermo will go from maximums close to 38 degrees to values around 28-30 degrees.
This abrupt change is typical of the end of summer in the Mediterranean, but the intensity of the previous heatwave makes the contrast more notable. Meteorologists point out that the storm will be the mechanism that balances the atmosphere after weeks of stability.
For the agricultural sectors, hail poses an additional risk after a summer of drought. Agricultural cooperatives have already activated crop protection protocols in the most exposed areas.
Recommendations ahead of the storms
Italian authorities have issued yellow and orange alerts in several regions. It is recommended to avoid unnecessary travel during the hours of greatest storm activity, especially in the afternoon and evening.
In coastal areas, winds could reach gusts of up to 70 km/h, complicating navigation and beach activities. Marinas have reinforced the moorings of vessels.
For travellers, it is advisable to check the state of the roads and train services, which could experience delays due to water accumulation or fallen branches. Airlines are also monitoring possible diversions at airports such as Fiumicino or Capodichino.
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