Italy has escalated heat warnings to the maximum level across all its major cities on Thursday as an intense heatwave sweeps the country for the fourth time this summer, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius in some regions.
Italy's health ministry has placed all 27 of the country's major cities under red alert status as of Thursday, marking an escalation from the previous day when 25 cities held this designation. The two southern cities of Messina and Reggio Calabria have now joined the highest alert category, completing the nationwide implementation.
A red alert classification signals a potential public health emergency, indicating that prolonged exposure to extreme heat poses serious risks across the entire population, including younger and physically fit individuals. Health authorities have advised residents to minimize time outdoors, particularly during peak heat hours between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., remain in cooler indoor spaces when possible, and maintain adequate fluid intake.
This represents the fourth heatwave to affect Italy during the current summer season, with some areas experiencing temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The health ministry indicated this is the first occasion this year that the complete network of 27 cities has simultaneously reached red alert status, though officials have not confirmed whether such a comprehensive alert has occurred in previous years.
Meteorologists attribute the extreme heat to a strengthened North African anticyclone system positioned over the Mediterranean region, which has expanded its influence across much of Europe. Weather forecasters expect minimal relief from the intense conditions until the weekend arrives.
