A late-winter cold snap brought snow, strong winds, and rain to centre-north Italy between May 11 and 14 [1].
This sudden weather shift disrupts the transition to spring and aligns with local folk traditions regarding unpredictable May temperatures. The phenomenon, known as the “colpo di coda dell’inverno,” represents a final surge of winter weather before the summer season begins.
An Arctic cold air mass drove the temperature drop, which reached at least 10 °C [2]. The weather system also triggered severe maritime conditions, with wave heights reaching up to 10 metres [2]. While some reports indicate snowfall across the centre-north region [3], other forecasts suggest the snow remained limited to mountain zones [4].
Local tradition associates this specific timing with the “Santi di ghiaccio,” or Ice Saints. Dire.it editorial staff said popular belief holds that temperatures almost always drop between May 11 and 14 because of these days [1].
This instability follows previous volatility earlier this year. ANSA reported a similar Arctic cyclone on March 26 and 27 that brought extreme ventilation and temperature drops [2].
Recent forecasts indicate that the unstable weather will persist. Giornalelavoce editorial staff said the instability has no intention of leaving Italy and that bad weather will return with new disturbances, thunderstorms, strong wind gusts, and more snow.
The combination of high winds and plummeting temperatures has created hazardous conditions for residents in the affected northern and central provinces. Authorities have monitored the impact of the storm surges and the sudden return of winter conditions in high-altitude areas.
“The phenomenon, known as the “colpo di coda dell’inverno,” represents a final surge of winter weather.”
The occurrence of a significant Arctic cold front in mid-May highlights the volatility of seasonal transitions in the Mediterranean region. By blending meteorological data with the 'Santi di ghiaccio' folk tradition, the event underscores how cultural heritage in Italy continues to frame the public's understanding of extreme weather patterns and climate variability.
