Sicily Braces for Severe Weather: Schools Closed, Orange Alert Issued
Sicily is preparing for a significant weather event, with a regional civil protection warning in effect for Thursday, February 12th, bringing the threat of strong winds exceeding 95 km/h, heavy rainfall, and dangerous storm surges. Authorities have taken precautionary measures, including the closure of schools and public spaces in Palermo, as the region faces a heightened risk of meteorological-hydrogeological and hydraulic hazards.
Widespread Risk Across the Island
The alert, valid from 4 PM today until midnight tomorrow, encompasses the entire island, though with varying levels of severity. An orange alert – indicating a high level of risk – has been issued for the Tyrrhenian side of the province of Messina. The remainder of Sicily is under a yellow alert, signifying a moderate risk.
According to regional authorities, the primary concern isn’t solely the anticipated rainfall, but rather the intensity of the winds. The Civil Protection reports forecasts of gale to strong westerly winds, with gusts reaching storm force, and the potential for storm surges along exposed coasts, creating particularly hazardous marine conditions on the Tyrrhenian side. This combination significantly elevates the risk of localized damage, including falling trees and branches, disruptions to traffic, and dangers in coastal areas.
Palermo Takes Decisive Action
In Palermo, Mayor Roberto Lagalla has ordered the closure of all schools, regardless of level, as a proactive measure to protect residents. The order, effective Thursday, February 12th, also extends to the closure of villas and public gardens, outdoor sports facilities, playgrounds, and cemeteries.
“Even in the presence of a yellow alert, the forecast data indicate weather conditions characterized by very intense gusts of wind,” Lagalla explained. “In such a situation we believe it is our duty not to take any risks, reduce travel and protect the safety of students, school staff and families. The choice is dictated exclusively by criteria of prudence and prevention.” The municipality will continue to monitor the situation closely in coordination with the Civil Protection agency.
Safety Guidelines for Residents
Given the severity of the predicted conditions, authorities are urging residents to take the following precautions:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of the storm.
- Do not park vehicles under trees, scaffolding, balconies, or billboards.
- Secure objects on balconies and terraces to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
- Exercise extreme caution while driving, particularly on sections of road exposed to the wind.
- Stay away from piers, cliffs, and shorelines during storm surges.
- Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or underpasses.
- Rely on official updates from municipalities and the Civil Protection agency for the latest information.
The most significant risk stems from the potential for sudden, powerful gusts of wind, emphasizing the importance of preventative measures and minimizing exposure to the elements.
Key Information & FAQs
The current alert is in effect from 4 PM today, February 12th, until midnight tomorrow. The orange alert is specifically focused on the Tyrrhenian side of the province of Messina, while the rest of the island remains under a yellow alert. Palermo’s decision to close schools, despite the yellow alert, is directly attributed to forecasts predicting wind gusts exceeding 95 kilometers per hour. Authorities emphasize that, in this scenario, the wind and associated storm surges pose a greater threat than the rainfall itself.
