Six cities across Italy were on red alert for weather on Thursday as a powerful heatwave intensified, with temperatures forecast to peak over the weekend.
Bologna, Bolzano, Brescia, Florence, Perugia and Turin were all issued the highest level heat warning, meaning the extreme heat poses a risk to everyone, not just vulnerable groups such as the elderly or those with pre-existing conditions.
According to the health ministry, the number of cities on red alert due to weather is expected to rise to 13 on Friday.
Forecaster Antonio Sanò, founder of the weather website iLMeteo.it, warned that Florence, Ferrara and Terni could see highs of 40°C on Sunday. Milan and Rome are forecast to reach 39°C.
“These temperatures may exceed the historical records set during the infamous 2003 heatwave,” Sanò said.
He also warned of “tropical nights,” where temperatures will not drop below 20°C, offering little relief from the oppressive daytime heat. In many areas, overnight lows are expected to remain around 25°C.
The extreme conditions are being driven by a powerful anticyclone, which Sanò said will remain over Italy for at least 10 days.
The first peak is expected on Thursday 26 June, with an even hotter second phase predicted for Sunday 29 June. A slight drop in temperatures may follow after Wednesday 2 July.
Both northern and southern regions of Italy are expected to experience the full brunt of the heat, with dangerously high temperatures widespread.
Health officials are urging residents and tourists to avoid outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day, stay hydrated, and take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
