Marche heatwave threatens agriculture as regional decree protects outdoor workers

The Marche regional government, led by President Francesco Acquaroli, issued an emergency order banning outdoor work during the hottest hours of the day in response to an unprecedented heatwave. The measure aims to protect agricultural laborers from extreme temperatures. Representatives of the regional farmers' association, Cia Marche, warned that the 2026 heatwave could cost the national agricultural sector over €1.5 billion through reduced yields, water stress and higher irrigation costs. While the heat improves grain drying, it jeopardises other crops and livestock, raising concerns about food‑security and farm profitability. Officials stressed the need for longer‑term investments in irrigation infrastructure and risk‑management tools to sustain production under increasingly extreme weather conditions.