Italy Puts Nearly All Major Cities on Highest Heat Alert

Italy is placing nearly all of its major cities under the highest alert for heat from Monday, as a fresh heatwave grips the country, authorities said on Saturday, according to The Local Italy. Some 19 major cities — including Rome, Milan and Naples — are already on red alert, and by Monday all but two will be, the BBC reported.

The red alert signals a serious health risk for the general population, not just the vulnerable, and typically triggers measures such as extended opening hours for cooling centres and advice to avoid outdoor activity during peak hours. The heatwave is part of a broader pattern across southern Europe, with the Guardian reporting that fire weather in the EU has broken records for severity for this time of year.

The alerts come as the country's summer season peaks, with millions of domestic and international travellers moving through cities and coastal areas. The heat is also straining infrastructure, from power grids to water supplies, though the cited reports focus primarily on the health warnings.