Orange Weather Alert in Liguria, Italy

An orange weather alert has been issued for the Liguria region of Italy for 20 October 2026, prompting school closures in several areas.

The alert, which represents a serious but not extreme level of risk, typically signals the likelihood of heavy rainfall, strong winds, or localised flooding.

In response, schools in Genoa, Liguria's largest city and a major port on the Italian coast, were ordered closed for the day.

A number of other municipalities across the region made similar decisions, resulting in a patchwork of closures that varied from town to town.

Local authorities have been publishing updated maps showing which schools remain open and which have shut as a precaution.

The coastal district of Nervi, near Genoa, was among the areas worst affected, with residents reporting intense rainfall.

The downpour led to difficult conditions on local roads, consistent with the kind of disruptive maltempo, or bad weather, that often accompanies orange-level alerts in Italy.

Civil protection officials have urged residents across Liguria to exercise caution and limit non-essential travel while the alert remains in effect.

Such warnings are not unusual in the region during the autumn months, when Liguria's combination of steep hills and coastline can lead to rapid and intense rainfall events.

This geography increases the risk of sudden flooding, particularly in low-lying coastal towns like Nervi.

Emergency services have reportedly been placed on standby to respond quickly should conditions deteriorate further during the day.

Local governments across Liguria are expected to continue monitoring the situation and may adjust closures or issue further guidance as needed.

Residents have been advised to follow updates from their respective town councils for the latest information on school closures and local conditions.

Authorities have not yet indicated when the alert is expected to be downgraded.