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Italy hit by extreme heatwave as red alerts cover 18 cities
An intense heatwave is sweeping Italy, with temperatures reaching up to 40 °C in the north‑central regions and sustained highs across the peninsula. The Ministry of Health has issued the highest “red” alert (level 3) for 18 cities, including Rome, Milan, Bologna, Florence, Turin and Venice, warning of emergency‑level conditions that can affect even healthy adults.
Health services are feeling the strain. Emergency rooms in major cities report a 10‑15 % rise in visits, especially among the elderly, people with chronic illnesses and children. The Cardarelli hospital in Naples recorded over 250 emergency admissions in a single day, while the pediatric Bambino Gesù hospital saw about a quarter of its visits linked to heat‑related issues. Officials cite dehydration, heat‑stroke, renal failure and respiratory problems as the main concerns.
Local authorities are implementing mitigation measures. Sorrento has banned horse‑drawn carriages between 12:00 and 16:00, and several towns in Emilia‑Romagna have altered construction schedules to allow work from 05:00 and during evenings to avoid the hottest hours. In Modena, a “Safe Summer 2026” program deploys portable air‑conditioners in nurseries and schools and operates a dedicated helpline for vulnerable seniors. Public health advice stresses regular hydration, limiting outdoor activity between 11:00 and 18:00, wearing light clothing and never leaving children unattended in vehicles.
Experts warn the heat may persist for another week, with forecasts of further temperature spikes and isolated thunderstorms offering little relief. The combined impact on public health, infrastructure and daily life underscores the severity of this summer’s heatwave.