Overview
- Meteorologists expect the vortex to drop into the central Mediterranean around Monday 22 December, with the most active phase from 22–24 December and further instability on Christmas Day.
- Heavy mountain snowfall is forecast, including up to about 1 meter on the western Alps above roughly 1,400 meters, with snow also on the Apennines around 1,200–1,400 meters and possible low-elevation flakes in the northwest on 25 December.
- Rainfall is projected to be widespread along the western belt, while the eastern half remains relatively drier, continuing the geographic split highlighted in recent forecasts.
- Winds are expected to strengthen markedly with strong coastal gusts, alongside thunderstorms over the South and the major islands after earlier North African–sourced downpours.
- A noticeable temperature drop is anticipated with polar air, and model guidance still diverges on the late-December evolution, so updates are advised in the coming days.