Italy is bracing for a sudden shift from summer to autumn as a polar cyclone brings a dramatic drop in temperatures, with forecasts predicting a decrease of up to 15°C.

Meteorologists from iLMeteo.

it report that the cyclone will hit the country starting Wednesday evening, bringing thunderstorms to the Alps and Prealps, and extending to the Po Valley overnight.

By Friday, the entire nation will experience autumn-like weather, with temperatures in some cities dropping from 30°C to below 20°C.

Snow is expected on the Alps above 1500 meters, and widespread rain and strong winds will affect the country.

The weekend will see a return of sunshine, but temperatures will remain cool, with highs struggling to reach 25°C in most areas.

This early autumn chill is unusual for September, with nighttime lows dropping to single digits in northern cities like Milan.