Italy weather shifts as Azores High ends extreme heat

Italy is experiencing a significant shift in weather patterns as the prolonged period of extreme heat and humidity begins to subside. The Ministry of Health has issued a ‘green code’ for the entire peninsula, indicating zero health risk from high temperatures for the upcoming weekend.

The arrival of the Azores High, an oceanic high-pressure system, is expected to bring stable weather and more temperate, seasonal temperatures across much of the country. This shift will likely see maximum temperatures remain below 30°C, a notable change from the recent subtropical heatwaves. While the North is expected to see more stability and sunshine, some residual instability and localized thunderstorms may persist in Central and Southern regions, including parts of Sicily and Puglia.

However, this period of stability may be brief. Forecasts suggest a potential change in scenario starting around September 16, as new disturbances from Northern Europe could bring rain and increased atmospheric dynamism. Additionally, recent heavy rainfall in regions like Friuli Venezia Giulia and Marche has already caused localized flooding and required emergency interventions from firefighters and civil protection units.