Climatologist predicts end of Italian heatwave and rising sea temperatures

Climatologist Massimiliano Fazzini from the University of Camerino predicts that the current intense heatwave in Italy is likely to persist until August 15. He notes that the signal for this heatwave has reached a high level of statistical reliability.

Following the August 15 peak, a weakening of the African anticyclone is expected. Fazzini anticipates a series of Atlantic disturbances arriving between August 16 and 18, which may bring cooler air. However, he warns that the accumulated thermal energy in the atmosphere could lead to violent weather events, including heavy thunderstorms and hail.

Fazzini also expressed concern regarding rising Mediterranean Sea temperatures. He noted that the Adriatic Sea has reached temperatures of 30.5 degrees Celsius, significantly higher than the 28.5-degree average from the previous three decades. He explained that high sea temperatures act as "fuel for clouds," increasing the risk of severe storms and destabilizing the atmosphere.