All 27 major cities in Italy are facing the country’s highest heat alert as the fourth summer heatwave threatens temperatures reaching 39C. This marks the first time this year that all cities monitored by Italy’s Health Ministry heat surveillance system have been placed on maximum red warning.
Authorities confirmed that 25 cities were already under the highest alert on Wednesday, with an additional two cities set to join on Thursday. A red alert in Italy signifies a health risk to the entire population due to prolonged extreme heat, increasing the likelihood of heat-related emergencies.
Public health guidance measures have been implemented, advising residents to avoid direct sunlight between 11am and 6pm, stay indoors when possible, and drink at least 1.5 liters of water daily. Recommendations also include avoiding fizzy drinks, coffee, alcohol, heavy meals, wearing light clothing, and never leaving children or pets in parked cars.
The ongoing heatwave, which has caused four deaths recently, has exacerbated drought conditions in the Po Valley, leading to water shortages in over 100 towns. Farmers report crop yield reductions, accelerated grape ripening, and a 10% decrease in milk production as dairy cows consume less in the hot weather.
In response, authorities in Rome are offering free entry to air-conditioned cinemas and extending evening hours at cultural sites. Forecasters predict the scorching temperatures will persist for at least another week.
Experts attribute the increasing frequency and severity of heatwaves to human-induced climate change. Europe has warmed at more than twice the global average rate since the 1980s, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service and the World Meteorological Organization.
