Sicily heatwave prompts red alerts, fires and thunderstorms

Sicily is experiencing an extreme heatwave, with Palermo and Catania placed under a level‑3 red alert as temperatures soar to a perceived 36 °C. The regional civil protection agency issued a 24‑hour warning and urged residents – especially the elderly, children and those with chronic illnesses – to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak heat and keep blinds closed.

The heat is disrupting public services: the Palermo courthouse has extended extraordinary measures, suspending some hearings and allowing judges and lawyers to appear without robes. Hospitals are under pressure, with the WHO noting increased admissions, malfunctioning air‑conditioning and strain on medical equipment, particularly affecting patients over 75.

Wildfires have broken out in the highlands of Melilli and near Catania airport, prompting five fire crews, civil protection units and forest service teams to respond. At the same time, Niscemi suffered a severe hailstorm that caused flooding and traffic disruptions.

Meteorologists expect cooler north‑westerly winds from Thursday, issuing a yellow alert for most of the island and forecasting thunderstorms on Friday and Saturday. Temperatures are projected to drop 4–5 °C, easing the heat stress.