Italy battles severe wildfires and record-breaking thunderstorms

A wildfire erupted near the coastal town of Peschici in Apulia, forcing the evacuation of more than 400 tourists and beachgoers by sea. Authorities deployed fire crews, civil protection teams and two Canadair water bombers, and mayor Luigi d'Arenza said the blaze was brought under control. Similar fires have spread across Italy, including a large blaze near Gallipoli that threatened beaches and residential areas.

In northern Italy, scientists report a surge in extreme supercell thunderstorms that produce heavy rain, damaging winds, large hail and occasional tornadoes. Research highlights the region's unique clash of warm Mediterranean air and cooler Alpine airflow, creating ideal conditions for the most intense storms in Europe. The frequency of hail larger than 2 cm, and especially hail over 5 cm, has risen sharply, suggesting a growing climate‑related risk.

Both incidents underscore Italy's exposure to extreme weather events as heatwaves, dry conditions and strong winds intensify across the country.