Variable Weather Expected for Easter: From Sunny Spells to Clouds

As Easter approaches, a significant weather divide has emerged across Europe, impacting travel plans for many, especially those heading to Italy. A low-pressure system is currently dominating the region, causing severe weather conditions in Italy while Germany braces for mixed spring weather.

According to the German Weather Service (DWD), a prominent air mass boundary is present over the country, resulting in stark temperature contrasts. On Thursday, Berlin is expected to experience unseasonably warm temperatures, reaching up to 27 degrees Celsius, while the Sauerland region struggles to reach even 4 degrees, accompanied by sporadic rain and gusty winds.

This pronounced temperature disparity is attributed to a low-pressure zone stretching from North Africa to the British Isles. Cold air from the west is pushing southward, while warm air extends towards Scandinavia from the east, creating pronounced thermal contrasts across Europe. This results in winter-like conditions in Western Europe, while Southern and Eastern regions enjoy warm to hot spring weather.

The severe weather is most evident in Italy, where heavy rainfall has caused numerous rivers to overflow. The Piedmont region is particularly hard-hit, prompting local authorities to close off certain areas and advise residents to stay indoors. Over 100 municipalities have issued a red alert due to the risk of further flooding and landslides, with regions such as South Tyrol, Lombardy, and Tuscany also facing threats from severe storms.

In central Germany, the collision of cold and warm air masses has increased the risk of thunderstorms, particularly in the transition zone running roughly from Bavaria to West Mecklenburg.

As for Easter itself, weather patterns are expected to shift slightly. On Good Friday, temperatures in the eastern states will drop to between 19 and 23 degrees Celsius, with showers and thunderstorms anticipated. The western regions may also face heavy rainfall, but temperatures are forecasted to rise slightly by Saturday, potentially reaching 23 degrees, although brief showers cannot be ruled out.

Overall, the weather during the Easter holidays in Germany is expected to remain unpredictable. While Berlin and Brandenburg may see rain on Sunday, more pleasant conditions with temperatures up to 21 degrees are predicted for Hessen. In Bavaria, ample sunshine is expected on Sunday, although in Baden-Württemberg and North Rhine-Westphalia, clouds may gather in the afternoon, so those planning to search for Easter eggs should do so early.

Travelers intending to spend their Easter holidays abroad should brace for weather-related disruptions. In Italy, many train lines are submerged due to the severe storms, with significant delays anticipated on routes connecting Italy and Switzerland.

Swiss travelers may also encounter challenges, as heavy snow and rain have led to major traffic issues and power outages in the southwestern part of the country. The ski resort of Zermatt is currently cut off from the outside world, according to local tourism officials. Additionally, the highest alert level for severe weather has been issued for several valleys in the Valais canton, warning of extreme rises in water levels and potential landslides. Both the Great St. Bernard Tunnel and the Simplon Tunnel, key links between Italy and Switzerland, have been closed, along with the Simplon Pass, which was shut in both directions on Thursday morning.