Rome among 19 cities on highest heat alert as heatwave grips Italy

Rome is among 19 Italian major cities already on red alert for heat, with nearly all of the country's urban centres set to follow by Monday, according to the BBC and The Local Italy. The alert, the highest level, signals a serious risk to public health as a fresh heatwave grips the country.

Authorities placed nearly all major cities under the highest alert from Monday, the BBC reported, including Rome, Milan and Naples. The measure comes as temperatures are expected to climb, with the heatwave intensifying across the peninsula.

The red alert indicates conditions that pose a threat to the entire population, not just vulnerable groups. Local health services in Rome and other cities are bracing for increased pressure as the heat takes hold.