Italy braced for severe thunderstorms, hail and strong winds across regions

A new phase of strong atmospheric instability is affecting Italy as a stationary Atlantic low‑pressure system drives repeated storm pulses toward the Mediterranean. Meteorologist Mattia Gussoni noted that the lack of a robust anticyclone leaves the peninsula exposed, allowing cold Atlantic air to undercut warm, humid layers and generate intense cumulonimbus clouds.

Forecasts call for heavy thunderstorms, frequent lightning, strong gusts and localized hail from June 3 to June 5. The earliest impacts are expected in the Triveneto area, with the storm front moving southeastward to central regions and then to Campania and Puglia. A second front on June 4 will bring further rain to the Alps and north‑west Italy, with conditions improving from June 5 onward.

The Civil Protection authority has issued orange and yellow alerts for many regions, covering risks of strong wind, hail, flooding and hydro‑geological hazards. Local effects include a school roof collapse in Crescentino, the closure of the school for a day, and rescue operations for two Polish alpinists on Monte Bianco hampered by the weather. Authorities advise residents to avoid flooded areas, limit unnecessary travel and secure exposed structures.