WEATHER in Italy: summer temperatures even in autumn

In recent years, Italy has witnessed an increasingly common meteorological phenomenon: intense heat that persists even in autumn.

Traditionally, autumn was associated with a gradual drop in temperatures and the arrival of the first rains, but today we are facing unexpected heatwaves that extend the summer feeling well beyond September.

One of the main causes of these climatic anomalies is global warming.

The increase in average global temperatures, mainly due to greenhouse gas emissions, is altering the normal seasonal cycle.

The atmospheric currents that regulate the passage of seasons are less stable, causing a delay in the arrival of autumn coolness.

Subtropical anticyclones, such as the Azores anticyclone or the African anticyclone, are increasingly moving towards Europe, affecting Northern Italy, Central Italy, Southern Italy, and the Main Islands with temperatures significantly above the seasonal average.

The warm autumn is not just a local phenomenon but part of a global trend.

In many regions of the world, seasons are becoming less defined, with longer summers and shorter, milder winters.

In Italy, autumn temperatures have often exceeded 30°C, especially in areas of Central Italy and Southern Italy, values that were previously reserved for the summer months.

In September 2022, for example, many Italian cities recorded record temperatures, with Florence and Rome exceeding 32°C.

This climate change also has implications for the country’s agriculture and ecosystem.

Traditional crops, such as grapes and olives, suffer from unusual weather conditions, and farmers must adapt to less predictable seasonal cycles.

Additionally, wildlife and local ecosystems can suffer severe consequences, with animal and plant species forced to migrate or quickly adapt to survive.

The sea plays a crucial role in moderating the climate in Italy, but significant changes are also observed here.

The waters of the Mediterranean are warming at alarming rates.

The heat accumulated in summer does not dissipate quickly in autumn, keeping the air warmer.

The Mediterranean, which once served as a natural thermostat, now contributes to fueling autumn heatwaves.

In the future, if greenhouse gas emissions are not reduced, it is likely that these out-of-season heat episodes will become increasingly common and intense.

Climate models suggest that by mid-century, autumn temperatures could increasingly approach summer levels, with peaks that could exceed 35°C in some areas of Southern Italy and the Main Islands.

Coastal cities, in particular, could suffer from increased humidity, making the heat even more unbearable.

Another possible effect of climate change is the increased frequency of extreme weather events.

Autumn heatwaves can be followed by torrential rains and intense storms, creating risk situations for the population.

In November 2021, for example, some regions of Northern Italy and Central Italy were hit by violent storms after an unusually warm period, causing floods and significant damage.

The risk to public health is another relevant issue.

The elderly and people with pre-existing health problems are particularly vulnerable to heatwaves.

With high temperatures even in autumn, the population could be unprepared, with an increased risk of heat strokes and dehydration.

To mitigate these effects, it is essential to adopt effective climate policies at both national and global levels.

Reducing carbon emissions, adopting renewable energies, and sustainable land management are necessary steps to combat global warming and prevent further weather anomalies.

However, the challenge is complex, and action must be immediate and coordinated.

Ultimately, the autumn heat that increasingly affects Italy is a clear sign of ongoing climate change.

The nature of the seasons is changing, and with it, our perception of traditional weather.

Only with a collective commitment can we avoid an even hotter and more unpredictable future.