Red alert declared for much of Sicily and the province of Messina. The mayor Federico Basile signed the ordinance of closure of schools of all levels (see here) and a similar measure will most likely be taken for the municipalities of the province.
Naturally, outdoor sports facilities, cemeteries and city parks will also be closed. “We recommend citizens to limit travel as much as possible and to exercise maximum caution”, declares the mayor Federico Basile.
Communication
Due to the weather warning and following the provision of the mayor of the Municipality of Messina, the suspension of teaching activities including exams in all departments and structures of the University.
The weather conditions, especially in eastern Sicily, promise to be particularly adverse starting from the first as early as today’s morning, Friday 17 January, and for the following 24-36 hours.
According to forecasts, they are expected scattered to widespread precipitation, which may also appear in the form of showers or thunderstorms of strong intensity. These phenomena will be accompanied by significant electrical activity and strong gusts of wind. The winds, coming from the eastern quadrants, will progressively intensify, reaching intensity from strong to gale, with possible reinforcements up to strong gale.
The situation will be particularly critical along the exposed coasts, where storm surges are expected which could cause disruption and damage. The authorities invite the population to pay maximum attention, especially in areas at hydrogeological risk and along the coastal areas.
The Consorzio Autostrade Siciliane, which manages the A19 and A20, recommends prudence in the use of motorway sections and, if not strictly necessary, to postpone departures until critical situations improve. Before getting into the car for the journey, we recommend consulting the information services and social channels of Autostrade Siciliane.