Orange Alert in Lazio: Storms and Strong Winds Expected, Public Spaces Closed in Rome
Rome, February 14 – The Lazio region, including the capital city of Rome, is bracing for severe weather as an orange alert for storms and strong winds has been issued. The alert, effective from the early hours of Saturday, February 14, is expected to last for 12 to 18 hours, or until the weather conditions subside.
In response to the impending weather, Rome’s Mayor Roberto Gualtieri has signed an ordinance prohibiting recreational and sporting activities in public areas exposed to meteorological phenomena. This measure will remain in force throughout February 14 and until the emergency ceases.
Widespread Closures and Safety Recommendations
The ordinance mandates several closures and safety precautions across the city:
- Access, transit, and circulation are forbidden in green areas, gardens, parks, and historical villas.
- All authorized activities under tree canopies or within their potential fall radius are suspended.
- City cemeteries will be closed to the public.
- Access to and activities in river parks and areas near rivers and waterways are prohibited due to flood risks.
Citizens are strongly advised to adopt self-protection behaviors to minimize risks. These include avoiding underpasses, embankments, ditches, canals, and areas prone to flooding.
Indoor and Outdoor Safety Advice
For those indoors, it is recommended to avoid basements and not to linger on balconies. Outdoors, individuals should seek high, sheltered places, away from trees or hanging loads, to prevent injuries from falling objects. Caution is also advised in green areas and tree-lined streets, where branches or entire trees might fall. In coastal areas, it is important to stay away from piers and jetties.
Drivers, particularly those of canvas-covered vans, caravans, or motorcycles, are urged to exercise extreme caution due to strong wind gusts and to pull over if necessary.
Previous Incidents and Ongoing Concerns
The current alert follows a series of recent severe weather events in Rome and Lazio. Earlier reports highlighted extensive flooding from the Trullo market to the X Municipality hall, with a cloudburst hitting central Rome and overflowing a stream in Bel Poggio. The Colombo area experienced flooding, and traffic was significantly disrupted on the Grande Raccordo Anulare (GRA).
A fallen pine tree near the Imperial Forums also caused concern, with an adjacent tree scheduled for felling on Saturday as part of “selective felling” operations. Previous yellow alerts for rain and flooding led to the closure of the Tiber riverbanks and widespread traffic chaos. The cumulative damage from these heavy rains, including potholes, fallen trees, and flooded schools, has amounted to millions of euros.
Official Statements and Future Outlook
The measures implemented by Mayor Gualtieri underscore the seriousness of the anticipated weather conditions and the city’s commitment to public safety. The situation remains under close monitoring by civil protection authorities.
The current orange alert serves as a critical warning for residents and visitors in Rome and the wider Lazio region to remain vigilant and adhere to all safety guidelines issued by local authorities.
Source: https://roma.corriere.it/notizie/cronaca/26_febbraio_13/maltempo-nel-lazio-allerta-arancione-vietati-accesso-e-transito-in-giardini-parchi-e-ville-storiche-chiusi-i-cimiteri-e3713154-229a-4110-a52b-e058d87aaxlk.shtml
