'Red warning' for rain and thunderstorms ahead of Imola Grand Prix

Rain and thunderstorm warnings remain in place for the Emilia-Romagna region ahead of the Imola Grand Prix this weekend.

Max Verstappen in the rain during the 2022 Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix. (Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool)

A “red warning” is in place for Tuesday for heavy rain and potential thunderstorms, according to the Servizio Meteorologico.

The warning comes after extensive rainfall in the region earlier this month caused flooding and landslides. At least two people died in the extreme conditions, according to the Associated Press.

Thirteen rivers in the area reached the highest alert level on May 2-3, with one sensor in the Ravenna province recording a rise from one metre to eleven metres in 24 hours.

Flooding adjacent to the Lamone river on May 4, 2023. (Landsat 8 / NASA)

Conditions are expected to ease ahead of the grand prix, with an “orange warning” for severe rain, wind, and thunderstorms in place for Wednesday.

Rain is expected overnight ahead of clear and dry conditions for free practice on Friday, with further wet conditions expected on Saturday for qualifying as spotty showers stick around in the province.

Sunday brings a moderate chance of rain and thunderstorms for the grand prix, which coincides with the introduction of the new full wet tyre by manufacturer Pirelli.

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