Why is it hot and dry in Italy? What to take with you to Italy
/ Climate of Italy
Climate of Italy
The climate of Italy is temperate in the north and subtropical Mediterranean in the center and southern regions. The diversity of Italy's climate is determined, first of all, by the longitude of its territory and the mountainous terrain of most of the country. Here you can find climatic conditions, practically for any type of holiday.
For example, Northern Italy - the Po Valley and the Alps - are characterized by a temperate continental climate. Slight sub-zero temperatures are the norm for winter in this region, and snowfall is not uncommon even in the valleys. On the Padan Plain the climate is transitional from subtropical to temperate - there are hot summers and cool, foggy winters (about 0°C). In the central regions of the Apennine Peninsula, the climate is subtropical, with hot summers and warm (at least +5°C) winters. The island of Sicily is the most South part The country is much warmer here throughout the year.
In addition, due to the peculiarities of the country's topography, the air temperature strongly depends on the altitude of the place above sea level - even in the suburbs of Rome or Turin, gently running up the foothills, it is always 2 - 3 degrees colder than in the city center. In the Apennine and Alpine mountains, snow lasts up to six months, and on the peaks all year round. The higher you go in the mountains, the more the climate changes from temperate to cold.
There are also some not very pleasant moments in the Italian climate. In the south of the peninsula, from March to October, dry hot winds blow from the Sahara - “sirocco”, or “broad”. During this period, the temperature rises to +35°C, and at the same time the dryness and dustiness of the air sharply increases. Also, cold northern or northeastern “tramontana” winds blowing from the Apennines (mostly in winter period).
Winter in Italy
Winter in most of Italy is mild and warm. Temperatures rarely drop below 0°C, although there are exceptions where it can drop to -15°C, but this is very rare. Throughout the winter, the weather in the south and north of the country is different - in the north it is cooler, more damp, and slight frosts are possible, while in the south the temperature can reach +12 - +15°C.
In December it is cold in Italy, both in the north and in the south. But, if in northern regions cities are covered with snow, then in the southern and central regions it is established rainy weather. In the north of the country it opens in December ski season. Numerous Italian ski resorts happily open their doors to everyone. A stable snow cover forms in the middle of the month, and more and more tourists arrive in the Italian mountains for the Christmas holidays. The thermometer here is consistently below zero - from -15°C to -5°C, depending on the altitude. However, such weather is quite easily tolerated, since relative level air humidity is quite low.
In Central Italy, you are unlikely to see snow on the streets in December; the average daily air temperature this month is +5 - +13°C. In Rome, the range of daily temperatures is +6 - +12°C; this month it is quite rainy and windy. It is a little cooler in Pisa and Florence - from +4°C to +11°C. In Venice in December from +0°C to +7°C, there is often fog and rain, very humid and damp. The water in the sea reaches its temperature minimum and is +12°C. Swimming season has been closed for a long time, so the beaches are used only for walking.
In the south, December air warms up to +13 - +16°C during the day. But in “sunny Italy” in December it becomes less sun. For example, in Sicily, the fortnight will be marked by rain. At the same time, this does not mean at all that they will come one after the other. Sardinia, located to the west of the mainland, is experiencing almost similar weather. The resorts of the Neapolitan Riviera are also distinguished by their mildness, but they are somewhat cooler here: in Ischia the daily temperature fluctuation is +7 - +13 °C, in Sorrento - +8 - +13 °C, in Capri and Naples the day is warmer - up to +14°С.
The weather in Italy in January is rich in precipitation, it is also cool, there is frequent fog, and there is almost no frost. Milan and Verona will be the coldest. Here the average daytime air temperature in January is only +4°C, and the nighttime temperature drops to -2°C. Many lakes in this part of Italy, in the middle of winter, are already covered with a layer of ice. Venice in January is very uncomfortable. Here there is a significant rise in the water level - approximately by 1 - 1.5 meters. The weather is not the warmest: -1 - +6 °C during the day, on top of that there is a high level of humidity, almost daily fogs and strong winds, blowing through literally every nook and cranny of the city. In the resorts of the Ligurian coast, the air temperature is noticeably warmer due to the softening effect of the sea, but also much rainier. Thus, in Genoa, half the month has precipitation, and the temperature range is +5 - +11 °C.
In the capital in January it is +11°C during the day, and at night the thermometer drops to +4°C. In Florence, located in the center of the Apennine Peninsula, by lunchtime the air warms up to +9°C, and after sunset the mercury column of the street thermometer tends to 0°C. In Pisa, the January weather forecast is very similar to the capital's, but there is slightly less precipitation here. However, due to frequent fogs and freezing winds, it is colder here, around +6 -+7°C. The water warms up to only +11°C.
It is warmest in the south of Italy - in Palermo and Naples - +14°C during the day, +11°C at night. But in Naples in January it is also quite rainy. On the island of Capri it is a little cooler - +4 - + 12°C; in Sorrento, on the Amalfi Coast, similar weather is observed during the day, but the nights are warmer.
And in the Italian Alps in January reigns real winter! Here are observed subzero temperatures air, which gradually fall as altitudes increase. At ski resorts, the average daily air temperature in January ranges from -8°C to -3°C. Very coldy rarely happen.
February is the most cold month per year. In February there are usually both cloudy and sunny days. Snowfalls will await you in the north of Italy, and rain in the southern part. There are fogs in the valley of the Po River, most months the sky is covered with dense clouds, there are occasional winds icy winds“tramontana”, which cause significant discomfort. In cold Verona and cool Milan, the average daytime air temperature in February will reach +7°C, and at night the thermometer stays at 0°C. Venice is still humid and damp, but due to the moderating effect of the Adriatic, the city is slightly warmer - from 0°C to +9°C. In separate February days There is an increase in temperature up to +11 - +12°C. But cold snaps also happen. The coast of the Ligurian Sea is drier and calmer. The average daily air temperature in February in Genoa and Portofino is +5 - +11°C. The temperature of the surrounding waters so far reaches only +13°C.
In Rome during the day the air temperature will reach +12°C, and at night it will be around +5°C. It rains quite often, but they are replaced by hours, or even days, of clear sun. In Florence in February, about +12°C is expected during the day, but at dusk it is only +3°C. The sea water temperature in February will reach only +13°C.
Big amount Palermo will delight you with warm and sunny days. During the day in February it is +15°C, and at night – +11°C. Capri is a little cooler - the average daily air temperature in February here is +12°C. As for precipitation, its amount is small, but the dampness is felt acutely.
In February, Italian ski resorts are in full operation. Here you can admire truly winter landscapes with bright sun and, sparkling in its rays, snow. The temperature range is different and depends mainly on the difference in altitude. Thus, in Bormio the average daily air temperature in February ranges from -2°C to -8°C, in Sestriere from +1°C to -7°C, in Courmayeur - +1°C during the day and -5°C at dark time days, in other elevated areas these indicators are 2 - 3 degrees higher.
Spring in Italy
Spring in Italy is a wonderful time, especially suitable for sightseeing trips. spring weather It doesn’t take long to wait and already at the beginning of March the sun is shining brightly throughout the country, the first flowers are blooming, the birds are chirping cheerfully, and the air temperature is rapidly creeping up. Mid-spring brings warm and stable weather, and May brings the first hot days.
In March, the weather in Italy is perhaps the most unpredictable. In practice, it is never possible to predict what to expect today. The weather in Italy in March is rich in both sunny and rainy days. Rain should be expected especially in the north of the country. The most precipitation is expected in Genoa. But, this is only until the middle of the month. From mid-March, the weather in Italy becomes truly spring-like, and the number of sunny days steadily increases. So, in Milan and Venice during the day the air will warm up to only +12°C, and at night it will cool down to +3°C.
Rome and Pisa will be the most comfortable. There the thermometer during the day rises to +15°C, and at night it will be only +7°C. Florence will also be quite warm: the average daily temperature will be +14°C. The water temperature will only rise to +14°C.
In March, Naples will delight you with daytime temperatures of +15 - +17°C, at night environment It cools down to +7°C here. Big amount warm days The Italian islands will also pamper you. In Sardinia and Sicily, at midday in March it is expected to reach +16 - +17°C, nights in the southern provinces are also warm - from +10°C to +12°C. In Capri and Ischia during the day, on average, +15°C.
Lovers ski holiday still waiting in March winter resorts. The most stable snow cover is observed in Bormio. During the day, the air warms up here no higher than +2°C, and as it gets dark outside, the resort is shackled by a light frost of about -6°C. It is much warmer in Sestriere, which belongs to western region Val di Susa. In the Dolomites and Val d'Aosta, the ski season ends early (usually at the end of February).
April - already, for real, spring month in Italy. Almost completely established sunny weather – ideal condition For excursion tours through one of the most romantic countries in Europe. The further south you go, the more you will enjoy the warm and sunny weather and the lack of precipitation. True, April is not quite warm enough to take swimwear, but it is quite clear to take sunglasses on the road. Daylight hours are gradually increasing, and with it the activity of the heavenly body is increasing. Its rays are already heating up a little, but they are still gentle and not aggressive.
As usual, it is coolest in April in northern regions Italy. In Venice, +16°C during the day, +8°C at night, and from about the middle of the second decade the air warms up significantly, and the city literally blooms under the gentle sun rays. In Verona and Genoa, the air warms up to +17°C during the day, and cools down to +8°C at night. In other resorts on the Ligurian coast (for example, Portofino and San Remo), night temperatures are a degree higher.
In Rome and Pisa, during the day the thermometer reaches +18°C, and at night it drops to +9°C. Most on warm days Florence will delight you. Here the air warms up to +19°C.
Southern provinces and islands Mediterranean Sea at the “equator” springs do not contribute to complete beach relaxation. But lovers of natural tanning have every chance of acquiring it. In Sicily and Sardinia, the weather in April is +19 - +21°C during the daytime, but it is too early to swim, the sea is quite cold.
IN mountainous areas The ski season is closing everywhere. Here, a rapid process of snow melting has begun, as the environment heats up to positive temperatures. So, in Bormio, at least +7°C is expected during the day. The exception is areas with eternal glaciers. On several slopes in Cervinia people ski until August - September.
In May, the weather in Italy already becomes almost summer-like and is characterized by stable warm and sunny days. The amount of precipitation throughout the country is minimal. May dresses the bushes and trees in lush, dense greenery, not yet scorched by the insidious sun, and covers the earth with a magical, fragrant carpet of colorful flowers. Many will be delighted by the number of blooming flowers: bougainvilleas, hydrangeas, irises, wisteria open to the May sun, presenting an incredible, mesmerizing sight. Italian cities wash themselves with the morning dew and dress in their best clothes. Only during this period will you be lucky enough to see such a rich palette of natural “colors”.
In the northern regions of Italy, traditionally, it will be the coolest (the north, after all). During the day in Venice and Genoa it will be +21°C, in Verona and Milan +22°C is expected. On the coast of the Ligurian Sea during the day +21 - +22°C, at night – +13 - +14°C. However, the water in the northern regions will still be quite cool. The water temperature in May will warm up to only +18 °C.
In Rome and Florence in May there will be an average of +23°C during the day. At the same time, the night air will still be quite cool - about +11 - +12°C.
In Sicily in May it is very sunny and dry. During the day, the air temperature on the island stays at +23 - +25°C, the evenings are still cool - from +8°C to +14°C. In Bari and Naples during the day the air heats up to +23 - +24°C, and after sunset it quickly cools down to +13 - +15°C. Capri and Sardinia are a couple of degrees cooler, with temperatures ranging between +21°C and +22°C, and as dusk deepens the environment cools to +11 - +12°C.
Summer in Italy
Summer in Italy is considered the peak season, when there are a lot of vacationers, the weather is hot, and the sea is warm. The weather in Italy in summer is beautiful, therefore, there is a large influx of tourists. In this regard, prices are rising, but this does not stop those who dream of soaking up the magnificent beach under the Italian sun. It is worth remembering that in June in Italy the air humidity is very high and particularly hot days can be very stuffy.
The weather in June in Italy is not yet so hot, and the sea, as a rule, already warms up to +20°C - +23°C. In Genoa, the thermometer will rise to +24°C during the day and drop to +18°C at night. In Venice it will be one degree warmer during the day, but at night it will be only +15°C. Verona and Milan will delight you with hot air temperatures in June – +26°C during the day and +16°C at night. In Turin and San Remo, maximum thermometer readings fluctuate in the range of +23 - +24°C, and on some days “jumps” to +26 – +27°C or “drops” to +19 – +20°C are recorded.
It will be hot in June in both Florence and Rome. Here the thermometer will not fall below +27°C. In Pisa and Rimini at noon in June average temperature air reaches +25 - +27°C.
In Bari and Naples in June in the daytime the thermometer shows up to +27 - +28°C, in Sicily - +25 - +28°C in the first half of the month and +29 - +30°C in the second, and at night, mainly +18 - +20°C.
July is the middle of summer, therefore, all of Italy is surrounded by greenery and bright flowers. White and pink all around flowering shrubs. Luxurious Italian asters are beginning to bloom. In July, the weather in Italy becomes even hotter and drier, with almost no rain. clear weather turns into a debilitating inferno. On the hottest days, when winds from the Sahara predominate, the air warms up to +35°C. Another aggravating circumstance is the stuffiness caused by increased level relative humidity, amounting to about 70%. Because of the stuffiness, the “interpretation” of temperatures is significantly distorted - the heat is felt stronger than it actually is. The sea water temperature in July is also quite high. In Sicily in July the water warms up to +24°C. In the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian seas the situation is practically the same: +24 - +26°С.
The most tolerable thermometer readings in July are recorded in the extreme northern regions of the country: during the day - about +25 - +28°C, after sunset - from +18°C to +19°C. In the central regions of Italy, as a rule, it is 1 - 3 degrees more.
In the south - in Sicily, Naples, Bari and Salerno, daytime air temperatures in July reach +30 - +35°C. In Sicily, the evenings are somewhat warmer - approximately +21 - +23°C, and in the southern cities of the Italian boot temperatures fall into a more modest range - from +18°C to +20°C.
August in Italy is the most hot month. At this time, the daytime air temperature often exceeds +35°C, rains are unlikely, and the Italians themselves can hardly tolerate such heat, successfully closing all factories and enterprises and going on vacation in August for several weeks, practically the entire country. Therefore, be prepared that in July at numerous Italian resorts, Italians themselves will join the endless crowd of tourists from all over the world.
As in any other summer month, in August Italy is surrounded by greenery. The time has come for lotuses to bloom, grapes, pears, and apples to ripen. The water temperature in August is simply ideal, like fresh milk and reaches +26°C. The weather is especially hot in the southern regions. Here the air temperature warms up to +34 - +37°C. So, in Naples and its surroundings at lunchtime the air temperature in August reaches at least +31°C, sometimes it can be +35 - +36°C. On the Sorrento Peninsula and the Amalfi Coast, the heat is much easier to bear thanks to the blowing breezes. After sunset you can count on +19 - +20°C. It is noticeably warmer in the evening in Sicily - about +22 - +25°C, but during the day the island is like a hot frying pan - +33 - +36°C.
During the day the air in ancient capital in August it steadily warms up to +29 - +30°C. Sometimes weather forecasters register all +32 - +35°C in the shade. There may not be a single rainfall for the entire month. By night, the air cools down to an average of +18 - +19°C, but you don’t feel cool, because the walls of city buildings perfectly retain the heat accumulated during the day.
In the north of the country, daytime air temperatures in August of +30°C and above are quite typical. By nightfall the sun stops burning, although the stuffiness still lingers. The resorts of the Ligurian Sea will delight you with mild weather, during the day it is around +27 - +28°C, and at dusk - around +18 - +19°C. In Venice, temperatures change during the day from +27 - +30°C to +18°C. In Milan in August it will be hot - around +29 -+31°C during the day.
Autumn in Italy
The beginning of autumn in Italy - beautiful time for beach holidays and excursion programs. The heat has finally “loosened its grip”, the humidity is slowly returning to normal, breathing is becoming easier every day. The velvet season brings more moderate temperatures air, and the sea is still warm, therefore, water procedure will be very pleasant.
In September the weather in Italy is hot, like summer. You can’t even say that autumn has come. However, by the middle of the month, the heat from which there was no escape in August is no longer there. Italy is gradually cooling down. Towards the end of September the weather changes and the rains come. But they don’t rain every day and are diluted on sunny days. The nights in September are already quite cool.
Some start to close in September resort areas. In particular, in Rimini, swimming is usually allowed only until the first or second week of September, after which the beach is closed. IN southern regions such as Capri, Sicily, Puglia and others, the water remains warm until mid-October and is approximately +24°C.
In the southern regions of Italy, the average daily air temperature in early September reaches +28 - +30°C, however, by the middle of the month they steadily drop to +26 - +27°C. At night the environment cools to +19 - +21°C.
In the central regions of Italy in the second half of September there is a high probability of rain. In Rome, Livorno, Pisa, Florence, during the daytime the air temperature in September ranges from +20°C to +27°C, and in the dark – from +15°C to +18°C.
In Milan, Verona and Venice in the evenings, mainly +15 - +16°C, during the day - +20 - +24°C, rain is also possible.
October in Italy – continued velvet season. At the beginning of October the weather is still good, although cloudy days and rains. Rain is especially typical for northern regions. In Venice, Verona and Milan during the day in October it is usually +17 - +20˚C, and at night about +8 - +10˚C. In Turin, the temperature values are similar during the day, but in the evenings it is a little colder - approximately +7˚C. It is a little warmer in the southern regions.
In November, the weather is no longer so stable, it can rain, the north and northeast winds can blow, but even in November there are often warm sunny days. In November, late varieties of figs and grapes, oranges, bergamot, and chestnuts ripen in Italy.
It is especially cool in the northern regions. In Venice, due to the abundance of water, it is chilly even during the day – +11 - +12 °C, and at night the temperature drops to +4 - +8 °C. Off the Ligurian coast in the last autumn month“wet” reputation – there is a lot of precipitation here.
The weather in Rome and Florence in November is quite dry and favorable walking. In Rome, the average daytime temperature in November is +16˚C, and at night it cools down to +9°C. The sea water is no longer suitable for swimming. Its temperature is +14˚C. Probably only a walrus can plunge into the Mediterranean or Adriatic.
In general, the south and island Italy are warmer and drier in November. In Sicily, the average air temperature in November is +18°C, and in the evening it becomes cold - +13°C. However, sunny weather still dominates here. In mid-November, the slopes of the Alps are already covered with a layer of the first snow, but not yet in sufficient volume to open the ski season.
The distribution of precipitation across Italy is very uneven. In the pre-alpine regions, up to 1,200 mm of precipitation falls per year. In winter, prolonged snowfalls are common here, and at altitudes above 2,000 meters there is snow for up to 200 days a year. IN central regions The Apennine Peninsula receives no more than 750 mm of precipitation per year, the maximum occurs in the winter months - in summer period In general, there is no more than 100 mm of precipitation. In the south of the peninsula, as well as in Sicily and Sardinia, it is even drier - total precipitation barely reaches 500 mm per year, and in the summer in Cagliari or Palermo there are often months without any rain (usually July).
When to go to Italy
Italy is a country spoiled by tourists; it loves such attention to itself and in every possible way encourages foreign tourists to enjoy its beauty. There are always a lot of tourists here, regardless of the time of year. Approximately 60% are located in Italy cultural values throughout Europe, where almost every Italian city is a real open-air museum.
To choose best time To travel to Italy, you need to clearly formulate 2 questions for yourself: what type of vacation are you looking for and what part of Italy are you going to. If you would like to go skiing, then welcome to the Italian Alps from mid-December to mid-March. At this time, the snow cover is most stable, the weather is excellent, and there is a choice ski resorts– impressive.
It is best to plan a trip to Rome in April - May and September. The rest of the time it is either too hot or too many tourists. In winter, the weather in the Eternal City is not bad, but a number of attractions are simply closed. The picture is approximately the same in Naples.
The best time to travel to Turin, Milan, Venice and Florence is from May to the end of September, when warm weather accompanied by low precipitation. But, this is high season and prices for goods and services at this time are off the charts. From November to March it is cloudy, cool and quite damp, and Venice in winter generally experiences nasty weather.
In Rimini, the best beach holiday lasts from early June to mid-September. Earlier the sea is cold, later the beaches are closed. But the summer months are also high season, there are a lot of people, and the price tag is outrageous.
The Italian islands are hot and dry in summer, however, the proximity of the sea significantly softens the heat. The holiday season here lasts from May to mid-October. And in spring and autumn it is quite comfortable here for active recreation or exploring local attractions.
The main thing is to remember one simple thing. In the Mediterranean countries of Europe, August is always the hottest and most expensive month, when there are simply a lot of tourists everywhere, but in Italy this month is simply the apogee of tourist madness! The fact is that in August, all plants, factories and enterprises close en masse throughout the country, and all workaholic Italians go on vacation for 2 - 3 weeks! And what would you think? Of course, they also go on vacation, and often to their native Italian resorts. Therefore, crowds of local and Italian tourists are also added to the crowds of foreign tourists, and Italians, as you know, are an extremely noisy people themselves. Therefore, if you do not like to relax like a herring in a barrel, it is better to avoid visiting Italy in August. Moreover, any of its regions.
Well, what would you do without shopping in Italy! Saldi is what discounts are called in Italy. The traditional sales and discount seasons for this country in each region fall on different days, as a rule, discounts begin in the south of the country and move north, but, in general, cover the period from the end of the Christmas holidays (January 5 - 7) to the end of February - March (winter), or from the first ten days of July to the beginning or end September (summer). Sales begin with small discounts ranging from 10 to 30%, but at this time you can buy the highest quality and most interesting things. By the end of sales, discounts can reach up to 50 - 70%!
Tours to Italy - special offers of the day
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In the south, Europe is testing the waters of the Mediterranean Sea, dipping a stylish boot into it - Italy. Travelers from all over the world love to come to this blessed country, located on the Apennine Peninsula. In the northwest it borders with France, further to the east with Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. Different sections of the Mediterranean Sea, washing Italy on all sides, have their own historical names: from the west - the Ligurian and Tyrrhenian Seas, from the east - the Adriatic Sea, from the south - the Ionian Sea. In the north of the country there are the southern spurs of the Alpine Mountains and the Padan Lowland. Italy owns such large islands as Sicily and Sardinia, as well as many smaller islands.
The climate in Italy is typically Mediterranean - soft, warm, moderately humid. Located north of the Alps are a natural barrier to moisture southwest winds, leaving a lot of moisture here, on the other hand, they reliably protect the entire country from cold northern winds. In northern Italy is located forest zone temperate climate zone, while the south of the country has a typical subtropical climate.
The main factor determining the climatic features of the Apennines and shaping the local wildlife, is the Mediterranean Sea. After all, even the most remote corners of Italy, the deepest corners of Italy, are located a maximum of 200-220 kilometers from one or another seashore. The diversity of the nature of Italy is determined by the elongation of the peninsula from northwest to southeast, as well as the predominance of hilly or mountainous terrain
. If the relatively narrow coastal strip has a warm Mediterranean climate, then in the interior of the peninsula and in the north in the mountains the climate is much cooler. The Apennine Peninsula is located in a seismically active zone, since underneath it there is an Alpine geosynclinal zone, which is divided into two branches: the Alpine, passing under the Alps, and the Dinaric, under the Apennines and the mountains of Sicily. Therefore, volcanic eruptions such as Mount Etna are not uncommon for these places.
, and quite strong earthquakes. Most of the Italian territory is part of a natural zone dominated by evergreen hard-leaved shrubs and forests. Among major representatives flora can be called the main boxwood, strawberry tree, pine and Aleppo pine, holm oak, cherry laurel, laurel, magnolia and olive. The Padan plain is almost entirely cultivated, its monotonous densely populated landscapes are sometimes enlivened by oak, less often pine or. Planted along roads, river banks and canals alleys of white acacias, willows and poplars.
The coastal lowlands of the islands and the Apennine Peninsula itself are overgrown with a wide strip evergreen shrubs and trees. Among them we can mention as wild species evergreen cork and holm oaks, alpine pines and pine trees, palm trees, agaves, cacti, mastic trees. But cultivated subtropical species still predominate: almonds, olives, citrus fruits, figs, pomegranates, artificial cork oak plantings.
In the Italian mountains, the altitudinal zonation of vegetation is clearly visible. The Alps are in another natural area compared to the Apennines, therefore only at the foothills of the latter there is a belt of subtropical vegetation. In the Apennines, above 500-800 meters, the belt of subtropical vegetation ends, and deciduous forests begin, from which the lowest plant belt begins in the Alps. In this case we are talking mainly about such a form as oak, whose forests are diluted with hornbeam, chestnut, beech and ash. As for cultural plantings, there are many vineyards, fruit trees, fields sown with oats, rye, potatoes. Grow higher mixed forests from beeches and conifers breeds In the Alps they begin at an altitude of 900 meters, and in the Apennines - only after 2000 meters. In the beech forests, herds graze in the off-season, which are driven to higher pastures in the summer. Above 1500 meters in the Alps, and in the south of the Apennines and in Sicily above 2000 meters the highest coniferous trees- mainly pine, fir and European spruce.
Tall grasses are located even higher subalpine meadows. The lushest and richest meadows in composition are found in the Alps, which is why they gave them their name. mountain meadows are excellent summer pastures. Above the meadows, up to the glaciers or peaks, only lichens or mosses. Exposed mountain slopes more often found not in the Alps, but in the Apennines, in places where forests were cut down, after which soil erosion and landslides began.
Climate zones
On the main territory of Italy there are three natural climatic zones: the Mediterranean climate is observed in most of the country, in the Padan lowland it becomes temperate, and high in the Alps it becomes cold.
The Italian Alps, the Padanian Lowland and the rest of the peninsula have their own climatic characteristics. In most of the peninsula, the subtropics are dominated by Atlantic winds blowing from the west; in summer they correspond to tropical climate, and in winter - moderate. In July, the average temperature in the north of the peninsula is +24 degrees, and in the south it is 2 degrees warmer. In summer, light winds predominantly blow from the west or northeast, with only occasional sirocco blowing in from Africa. In winter, cyclones usually occur, bringing precipitation. In the south of the peninsula in winter the average temperature is +10 degrees, but further from the coast it is colder - only +3 degrees. Snow at low altitudes occurs only in the northern Apennines, and stable snow cover occurs only in the Alps. In general, winter is very mild, and on the Italian Riviera and Genoa it is more reminiscent of autumn - in January the average temperature is +7 degrees.
In the Padan Lowland the climate is average between temperate and subtropical, with dashes of continental (very hot summer - in July the average temperature is +25 degrees, and in January it is quite cool - only 0 degrees).
Subtropical climate of Italy
In the south of the “Italian boot” the terrain is hilly, the climate is quite warm, the summers are long and very hot. Evergreen Mediterranean vegetation reigns here. The local rivers have very little water, and in the summer many of them dry up. All Italian islands have mountainous terrain similar to the mainland natural conditions. 250 days a year there it is clear, hot and dry summer(in July +26 degrees), winter is very mild (in January +8-10 degrees). From March to October, hot “sirocco” is possible, raising the temperature to +35 degrees.
Continental climate of Italy
In the northernmost alpine zone there is a continental climate with a pronounced manifestation altitudinal zone. In July at the foot of the AlP the air warms up to an average of 20-22 degrees. In the west, in Bardonecchia average annual temperature equal to +7.4 degrees and 660 mm of precipitation falls. Colder and wetter in the eastern part, in Cortina d'Ampezzo(+6.6 degrees and 1055 mm, respectively). In the west, in the Aosta Valley, permanent snow cover forms at an altitude of 3110 meters, and in the Julian Alps it drops to 2545 meters. Sometimes in autumn and winter a dry, warm “foehn” breaks through from Austria and Switzerland, leading to sharp warming in the Susa and Aosta valleys. Blasts of cold, dry boron in the eastern Alps capable of reaching speeds of 200 km/h. In the high mountain regions it rains in the summer, but in the off-season they shift to the edges of the climate zone. Snow is only possible in winter, and its amount (3-10 m) is determined by proximity to the coast and the specific season. The heaviest snowfalls occur in the foothills. But in the mountains the temperature often drops to -15-20 degrees. Local lakes soften the weather a little. If in Milan the average January temperature is +1 degree, then on Lake Garda it is +4 degrees. There are several hundred glaciers in the Italian Alps, of the most famous - in the Mont Blanc massif is Miage - the largest in Italy, and the southernmost in Europe at the top of Corno Grande - Calderon.
Transitional climate from subtropics to temperate
Between the described zones is the Padan Lowland, which is characterized by Central European nature with signs of the beginning of the subtropics. Summers here are hot and winters are harsh, which soften towards the Adriatic. Average winter temperature in Turin +0.3 degrees, and in summer +23 degrees.
Mostly rains occur in the off-season, and the higher it is, the more frequent they are. The high plains receive little snow. On the Adriatic coast, the temperature rises when moving from north to south not only for reasons of latitude, but also with a change in the wind rose from east to south. In Venice the average annual temperature is +13.6 degrees, in Ancona +16 degrees, and in Bari +17 degrees. Precipitation is 750, 650 and 600 mm, respectively. The severity of winter in the Apennines is determined by altitude, mainly observed moderate precipitation in the form of rain and snow. Winter cyclones often change the weather, bringing snow even in southern regions. In the east, in Urbino the average annual temperature is +12.1 degrees with 890 mm of precipitation, and in Potenza +12.5 degrees with 1000 mm. Inside the peninsula and on its eastern slopes, 800 mm of precipitation falls per year, and in the center of Sicily and Sardinia not even 500 mm is collected. Important feature
Italian nature is characterized by constant tectonic and volcanic processes
, since the country is located in an area of young mountain folding.
Climate diversity is determined by territorial extent along longitude. In northern Italy the climate is transitional, from subtropical to temperate continental. On the Padan Plain in January, at night the temperature drops to zero and even slightly negative levels, and during the daytime it is only 4...6 degrees Celsius. In winter, snow almost always falls, which does not melt for several weeks and, due to the stagnation of cold air flowing from the Alps, fog is often observed. In the warmest month - July - even at night the temperature is +18...+20, during the day the air warms up to +30. The least precipitation falls between January and March (monthly amount is about 50 mm), the most in October and November (from 100 to 115 mm per month).
IN mountainous area The Alps and Apennines climate varies from temperate at the foot of the mountains to cold at the tops. Temperature decreases with altitude and day-to-day contrasts increase. In the mountains, snow lasts up to 6 months, on the peaks it lies constantly, and heavy snowfalls are frequent from October to May.
By climatic features The Apennine Peninsula and the island of Sardinia are typically Mediterranean areas with warm and mild winters and hot and dry summers. On the coast in January, the temperature at night is already positive (+1...+4), although frosts also occur, up to +10 during the day, in July at night +17...+19, during the day +27...+29. July is the driest month (20 mm), the period from October to December is the rainiest (on average, 75 to 100 mm of precipitation falls per month).
On the island of Sicily, which is the southernmost territory of the country, it is much warmer. In January (the coldest month of the year) night temperatures are +7...+9, daytime temperatures are +13...+16, in July it is very hot (at night +19...+23, during the day +30... +32 degrees).
From March to October, dry, hot winds blow from the Sahara - the Sirocco. During this period, the temperature often rises to +35 C.
The least precipitation falls in summer (from June to August no more than 15 mm), the most from October to February (on average 80 mm, in some places more than 100 mm).
The water temperature in the period from January to April is 14...16 degrees, from May to August it rises from 16...17 to 25...26, after which it gradually decreases, remaining quite comfortable until October (23...25 degrees), in November and December its value is 18...21 degrees.
Best time to visit Italy:
If the purpose of the trip is an excursion program, then there is any time of year to visit. If you want to combine excursions with a beach holiday, then the period from May to September inclusive is preferable. Ski resorts are open to tourists all year round.
All of Upper Italy is located in the transitional temperate-subtropical zone. The Padana Valley, thanks to its protection by the Alps and Apennines, is to a certain extent characterized by even a continental climate with hot summers and cold winter. True, there is precipitation here throughout the year. Snow can fall from December to February. In Milan and Bolzano temperatures can drop to -14 °C or lower. But the upper temperatures here in summer often reach over +33 °C.
Upper ItalyAdriatic - Riviera
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The coasts of Tuscany, Liguria, Veneto, Marche and Emilia-Romagna generally have a subtropical climate. Summer is practically rainless, and drought sometimes lasts for months. True, in winter the temperature only occasionally drops below -10 °C, and in summer it is not as unbearably hot near the water as in the interior of the country.
Central Italy
Central Italy has a distinct Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and damp, mild winters. Winter frosts almost never happen on the coast, but often on high levels Apennine. As already noted, on west coast The Tyrrhenian Sea receives much more precipitation than the Adriatic coast. High summer in Central Italy is especially unbearable in the cities.
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Southern Italy, island Italy
Hot summer and surprisingly cool winter- this is what is typical for the climate of Southern Italy and the islands. Maximum summer temperatures often exceed +40 °C. True, the heat is most often quite dry.
Air currents
Wide distribution of areas of high and low pressure, as well as their varying intensities, create a special wind system throughout the year in Italy. Also in ancient times the wind was either feared or waited with hope.
Bora
Bora is a downward, squally northeast or east wind that comes from the Eastern Alps and Dinaric Mountains and causes strong disturbances in the waters of the Adriatic Sea. It can be especially unpleasant in the Italian part of the Adriatic coast. So, for example, he enters sea water into the Venetian Lagoon, which is why St. The brand sometimes “goes underwater.”
Tramontana
The Tramontana wind brings to the Mediterranean region cold air from North. However, in the southern part of the Alps and on the peaks of the Apennines it causes a foehn effect, that is, then it is especially dry and clear here. This wind becomes very unpleasant when it combines with the mistral raging along the Rhone valley, or east wind boron Then only the Riviera, framed by high mountains like an amphitheater, remains protected from gusts of cold air.
Sirocco
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The sirocco has a completely different character - a humid, warm southern wind that occurs in dry and hot conditions. air masses over the Sahara and absorbing on its way through the Mediterranean Sea to the North a lot of moisture, which it gives off in places of mountain clusters (Apennines, Alps). This explains, by the way, the large volumes annual precipitation in the Riviera di Levante, in the Lombardy and Venetian Alps. The sand and desert dust carried by the sirocco often fall with the rain over the Alps, and sometimes further north.
Libeccio
This wind from the southeast brings showers. In Northern Italy, libeccio is also known as mezzogiorno.
Italy - amazing country. The most romantic and ancient cities are located on its territory, and the shape of the peninsula in the form of a “boot” was the reason for numerous jokes. It's always interesting here. The country delights numerous tourists all year round. The warm climate of Italy also contributes to this.
On the territory of the country there are 2 dwarf states: San Marino and the Vatican. In addition, the state includes such large islands as Elba, Sardinia, and Sicily. Italy is washed by five Ionian, Mediterranean, Tyrrhenian, Ligurian.
Italian landscapes are very diverse. Picturesque hills, sandy beaches, wild rivers, the snowy peaks of the Alpine mountains excite the imagination and remain in the memory for a long time. Anyone planning to relax in Italy can do so not only in the summer. Don't be upset if your vacation falls during the cold season. The climate of Italy is quite mild. The air temperature in summer is no more than 35 degrees, and in winter it never drops below 5 degrees. Thereby, local population has the opportunity to grow flowers all year round open ground.
The absence of frost allows you to successfully grow both citrus fruits and olives. However, the most beautiful sight is presented by them blooming in February. You won't find anything more mesmerizing in the world. Thanks to this, Italy is especially beautiful and attractive in winter.
When describing this wonderful country, it is impossible not to mention some of the features of the local landscapes. One of them is the small cozy houses that can be seen on numerous hillsides. The roads leading to them are so steep that even the most modern cars sometimes they cannot reach them. This is what the homes of ordinary Italians look like. As a rule, in the summer houses are surrounded by greenery. Mild climate Italy allows them to look very colorful all year round.
Autumn colors the landscape different colors. It is most beautiful here in winter and early spring. At this time, mimosa blooms. There are a great variety of these plants here. The appearance of flowers indicates the imminent arrival of spring.
Any local will say that bad weather does not happen on the peninsula. The climate of Italy is characterized by hot summers and warm winter. Its elongated shape provides some climatic diversity. In addition, numerous mountains also influence the weather.
In the north there is a zone continental climate. It is very hot here in summer, and cool, damp and foggy in winter.
In the south the Mediterranean climate predominates. and dry. A refreshing sea breeze saves you from the heat. Thanks to him, even during the day you can walk around the city for a long time and go to the beach. In winter there is a lot of rainfall, and the temperature never drops below 7 degrees.
The central part of Italy dominates. There are no sudden changes in temperature or excess precipitation. In summer the average is 25 degrees.
Fans of ski resorts should definitely visit Italy in winter. The most a large number of tourists arrive here in January. There is snow in the mountains for about six months. This allows you to ski on the slopes for quite a long time.
February brings joy with sunny days. In addition, the number of people at resorts at this time is significantly reduced. This contributes to a more relaxing holiday.
For those who love the sun, the island of Sicily is perfect. The hot sun and endless sandy beaches will charge you with energy for the whole year.
Numerous resorts in Italy can offer both leisure on water or on land, there is silence and endless calm. Employees medical centers located near mineral springs, will take care of your health. Sights scattered throughout Italy will allow you to touch the history of this stunning country.