What to do in case of winds and sea storms

In case of strong winds, irregular, discontinuous and sometimes violent gusts may occur, with different duration.

Strong winds may make people fall down, but the most serious consequences may be caused by objects falling down or wrecked by gusts (branches, roofing tiles, vases, electricity posts, road signals, advertising signs, frames, etc.), that, depending on the intensity of the wind can move light or heavy objects, up to knocking down trees or unroof houses.

Rules of behaviour

  • Avoid exposed areas, looking for a shelter away from exposed or hanging objects that may fall, even if they are small and relatively light, such as a vase or a roofing tile.
  • Avoid with particul attention green belts and streets lined with trees. The most common accidents are caused by falling branches, sometimes vof big dimension, that may directly hit people or occupy portions of streets, becoming a serious risk for motorcyclists and drivers.

On the streets

  • Pay particular attention if you are driving a car or riding a motorcycle: wind gusts may skid vehicles off road, making slowing down or a stop-off necessary.

Exposed roads are particular at risk, such as galleries exit and viaducts; the most exposed vehicles are trucks of any kind, due to the large surface exposed to the wind: they can actually be moved by the wind, even when the intensity of the wind is not very high.

Each and every mobile structure is at risk, especially the ones with tents and throws, such as frames, gazebos, exihibition or temporary outdoors structures. All of them need to be tested and secured.

At home

  • Sort and secure objects both at home and at work that lie in areas exposed to the wind and run the risk of being taken away by wind gusts (vases and other objects on windowsills and balconies, antennas or roofing tiles fixed precariously, etc.)

Sea storms

Strong winds cause heavy sea storms along the coasts, in particular when wind has a direction perpendicular to the coast.

Along the coast

  • Pay the maximum attention when approaching or walking along the coast.
  • Avoid to stop along the coast and especially on piers and wharfs;
  • Avoid bathing and using boats and secure pre-emptively boats on shores and dock areas.