by InTrieste
Authorities in Friuli Venezia Giulia have issued a yellow weather alert for Wednesday, August 20, as a wave of thunderstorms is expected to sweep across the region. The alert, the lowest in Italy’s three-tiered warning system, signals the risk of localized flooding, landslides, and transport disruptions.
Meteorologists said a cold front moving in from the Atlantic is likely to trigger unstable conditions, particularly over the plains and coastal areas, though hilly and mountainous terrain may also be affected. Strong downpours, sudden wind gusts, and possible power outages have been flagged as potential hazards.
Rainfall on Tuesday was scattered, with heavier precipitation recorded in the Prealpi Giulie north of Udine, while coastal areas remained largely dry. Humidity levels, however, remained high, fueling concerns that conditions could worsen as the storm front advances.
Regional authorities urged caution in flood-prone zones and along smaller river networks, noting that the storms could cause temporary road closures and urban flooding in low-lying neighborhoods. Despite the forecast, no major incidents were reported as of Tuesday evening.
The Department of Civil Protection emphasized that the yellow alert does not indicate severe damage is expected, but warned that localized critical situations—from flash floods to slope instability—remain possible.
Friuli Venezia Giulia, like much of Italy, has experienced volatile weather this summer, with alternating stretches of extreme heat and sudden storms. Meteorologists expect this variability to continue in the coming weeks as the Mediterranean remains prone to rapid atmospheric shifts.
