Italy’s Unsettled Weather: Late Snow and a Cold Blast Expected

Italy is experiencing an unusual weather pattern as winter lingers, with the potential for late-season snow and a significant drop in temperatures. Despite the Spring Equinox arriving on March 20th, a return to colder conditions is anticipated, challenging the brief period of improvement.

Current Conditions and the Spring Equinox

Residual weather disturbances are affecting southern Italy, with snow expected above 1000 meters. However, the arrival of the Spring Equinox on March 20th at 3:46 PM is expected to bring a general improvement in weather conditions across much of the country. Lorenzo Tedici, a meteorologist at iLMeteo.it, outlines this transition.

Uncertain Weekend Forecast

The initial weekend of spring, however, promises to be unsettled. Snowfall is possible in the northern mountains on Saturday, while a depression originating in North Africa will bring showers and instability to central and southern Italy on Sunday.

A Cold Blast from the North

A more significant change is expected around Wednesday, March 25th – exactly three months before Christmas. A winter-like cyclone descending from Northern Europe is forecast to move towards Italy. This system, originating near the North Cape in Norway, will bring a wave of terrible weather, potentially including snow at low altitudes in central and southern Italy, and a rapid deterioration in conditions in the north.

Temperatures Below Average

If the trajectory of this cold outbreak is confirmed, temperatures are likely to remain below average for the period, potentially extending into early April. High-pressure systems resting over western Europe may leave Italy vulnerable to these cold air masses. Reports indicate a prolonged period of colder weather is possible.

Detailed Regional Forecast

Thursday, March 19th

• North: Good weather, plenty of sunshine.
• Center: Unstable in lower Abruzzo and Molise in the morning, then clearing.
• South: Still unsettled with snow above 1000 meters.

Friday, March 20th

• North: Good weather.
• Center: Sunny, cold in the morning.
• South: Some showers on Sicily and Calabria.

Saturday, March 21st

• North: Worsening from the Triveneto towards the Northwest in the evening, with snow in the Alps.
• Center: Variable weather with a prevalence of sunshine.
• South: Sunny, then increasing clouds and isolated showers.

Looking Ahead

Sunday is expected to be rainy, particularly in central and southern Italy. The arrival of cold air from Norway around March 25th is a key development to watch. Italy appears to be experiencing a delayed transition to spring, with a return to winter-like conditions.