Weather Alert: Summer 2024 - Guide for Emergency Operators
Summer 2024 is particularly challenging for emergency workers and requires preparation and prevention
The summer of 2024 is a particularly complex season from the meteorological point of view, with a rapid succession of extreme conditions that require constant attention by emergency and rescue operators.
Short-term forecast: what to expect
- Beginning of the week: severe weather warning in the North-East. A strong cyclone vortex will bring intense rainfall and thunderstorms, with risk of clouds and flooding on Veneto, Emilia Romagna and Marche. Strong wind gusts and possible hail are expected
- Mid week: African heat returns. The anticyclone will regain control, bringing a sudden rise in temperatures, with peaks that could exceed 37-38 degrees in the inner areas
- Weekend: new thunderstorm front. A new Atlantic disturbance will again bring instability and precipitation, especially in the northern regions
Risks and criticalities
This weather variability entails a number of specific risks for the population and requires high attention by emergency workers:
- Floods and landslides: Heavy rainfall, especially in already fragile areas, can cause flooding, flooding and landslides
- Damage to infrastructure: Strong wind and hail can cause damage to roofs, trees and power lines
- Heat waves: High temperatures can cause heat strokes, dehydration and aggravate the condition of elderly people or those with chronic diseases
Recommendations for emergency workers
- Constant monitoring: Follow the weather updates and alerts issued by the Civil Protection
- Preparation of the material: Have all the necessary material ready for emergency interventions in case of floods, landslides or other adverse weather events
- Coordination with other forces: Ensure effective communication and coordination with other relief forces and local authorities
- Information to the population: Disseminate timely information to the population, providing advice on how to act in case of emergency
- Personal safety: Do not forget to take care of your own safety during rescue operations. Always use personal protective equipment and follow standard operating procedures
Useful tips for the population
- Follow the directions of the authorities: In case of weather alert, follow carefully the directions of the competent authorities and limit the movements
- Protect your home: Secure items that could be carried away by the wind and clean gutters to avoid obstructions
- Check the weather forecast: Consult the weather bulletins regularly and keep up to date with the situation
- Prepare an emergency kit: Keep an emergency kit with a battery-powered radio, torch, water, non-perishable food and a first aid kit on hand