The scorching heatwave in Italy has led to a rise in ‘red alert’ cities, with 22 cities on maximum alert on Monday and an increase to 25 expected by Tuesday. The extreme heat persists despite upcoming forecasts of thunderstorms and lower temperatures from July 1.
The Ministry of Health’s heatwave bulletin lists cities like Ancona, Bari, Milan, Rome, and Venice among those under red alert. This level 3 alert signifies emergency conditions with potential adverse health impacts on the general population, not just vulnerable groups.
Further cities like Cagliari, Catania, and Trieste are set to join the red alert status. Across Europe, countries like Germany, the Czech Republic, and Poland have also experienced record temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, affecting millions of people with extreme heat alerts.
The World Health Organisation reports over 1,300 excess deaths in Europe since June 21 due to the intense heat. However, relief is expected as thunderstorms are forecasted to bring cooler temperatures, although authorities warn of potential severe hailstorms and downbursts.
