Italy remains on high alert due to extreme heat – Latest news update
“Red Alert” Issued in Multiple Italian Cities as Extreme Heatwave Continues
The Ministry of Health in Italy has issued a “red alert” in several cities across the country due to the extreme heatwave. Ancona, Bologna, Bolzano, Brescia, Cagliari, Campobasso, Florence, Frosinone, Latina, Messina, Palermo, Perugia, Pescara, Rieti, Rome, Trieste, Viterbo are among the cities currently under the red alert. Additionally, tomorrow the cities of Naples, Venice, Verona, Catania, Civitavecchia, and Turin will also be added to the list. This means that warnings have been issued in 23 out of the 27 major cities in Italy, signaling the severity of the hot weather conditions.
However, relief is expected as the extreme temperatures are predicted to subside by Thursday. The number of cities under the red alert will likely decrease to 18 by then.
Recent meteorological data from the “Il Meteo” website shows that certain areas in Sicily have experienced peak temperatures of 46-47 degrees, while Sardinia recorded temperatures of 45-46 degrees. Tourists visiting the historic city of Rome have been struggling with the scorching heat, with temperatures ranging between 41-45 degrees during the day. Many tourists have resorted to filling up water bottles from historical fountains and seeking shade under umbrellas and hats to protect themselves from the intense sun.
The famous Spanish Steps in Rome, usually bustling with tourists, have been empty due to the high temperatures. A nearby pharmacy displayed a temperature of 46 degrees on its thermometer, highlighting the severity of the heatwave.
To assist those who may fall ill from the extreme heat, help points have been set up in the capital city of Rome to provide immediate support and medical assistance.
Furthermore, the ongoing heatwave has led to an increase in electricity consumption throughout the country. The use of electrical appliances such as air conditioners and fans to cool down rooms has contributed to the surge in demand. Electricity distribution network operator Terna reported that on July 17, when temperatures were at their highest, daily electricity consumption reached the highest level of the year, reaching 56.67 gigawatts.
In addition to the impact on humans and infrastructure, the Italian press has warned about the potential increase in rodents such as mice in city centers, a consequence of the extreme heat.
As the hot weather persists, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and advise residents and tourists to take precautions to stay safe and hydrated during the heatwave.
