Overview
- A strong high-pressure system of African origin continues to dominate the Mediterranean, delaying a wintry pattern and keeping conditions largely dry.
- Temperatures remain well above seasonal norms, with highs near 20°C in the South and on the major islands and unusually mild, sunny conditions over the Alps.
- Dense fog and low clouds persist across the Po Valley and along stretches of the Ligurian and Tuscan coasts, locally holding down daytime temperatures and reducing visibility.
- Stagnant air is worsening urban air quality, with fine-particulate pollution expected to rise further in northern cities over the next few days.
- The stable regime is expected to hold through the weekend, while a disturbance from Tuesday 16 December could bring rain to the islands and parts of the South if it develops as projected.