Sicily heatwave pushes temperatures above 40°C in Ragusa

A strong African air mass is expected to dominate Sicily from 13 to 19 July, bringing maximum temperatures that could exceed 40 °C in the inland and southeastern parts of the Ragusa province. Meteorologists warn that the combination of extreme heat and high humidity will raise perceived temperatures by several degrees, creating a “heat dome” that may persist for days. The regional civil protection authority has identified Ragusa and Siracusa as high‑risk zones for heat‑related incidents and wildfires. Experts note that the traditional Azores anticyclone is increasingly being replaced by hot North‑African air flows, a trend linked to climate change that is lengthening and intensifying Mediterranean summers. A possible cooling air mass could arrive in the third decade of July, offering temporary relief.