Italian heat wave pushes seven cities to red alert

A new heat wave is sweeping Italy, prompting the Ministry of Health to raise the alert level to red (level 3) for seven provincial capitals on Wednesday, 15 July. The cities now under the highest warning are Bologna, Frosinone and Rome, joining the already‑red cities of Florence, Perugia, Brescia and Turin.

Eleven other cities are on orange alert (level 2), indicating heightened risk for the elderly, children and people with chronic illnesses. Only three cities – Bari, Catania and Reggio Calabria – remain in the green zone, where no risk is reported.

Health authorities advise the public to avoid exposure to the sun during the hottest hours, stay well‑hydrated and check on‑lookers for signs of heat‑related distress. The municipality of Monza reiterated these recommendations, urging residents to use the European health‑helpline 116 117 for non‑urgent medical advice.

The Ministry’s guidance emphasizes particular care for vulnerable groups as temperatures continue to climb across central and northern Italy.