"Temperatures will fall significantly across the country and especially in the Adriatic regions," the national civil protection service said.

"Persistent ice is expected on flat ground across the country," it said, warning that its alert took effect on Sunday evening and was valid for up to 48 hours.

"The Adriatic regions and Sardinia will experience strong winds. Light to moderate snowfall is expected" in several mountainous areas and on plains, it said.

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