Italy’s health ministry has escalated heat warnings across the country as extreme temperatures grip the nation. As of Saturday, 19 major cities ranging from the northern city of Milan to the southern Naples were already operating under the highest “red” alert designation. By Monday, this number is expected to expand to 25 of the country’s 27 major cities, with only Reggio Calabria and Messina remaining at the second-highest “amber” alert level.
Temperatures on Saturday reached the mid-30s Celsius in many locations. Health authorities stressed that the heat poses risks not only to vulnerable populations such as elderly residents, young children, and those with chronic illnesses, but also to healthy and active individuals. Officials urged residents in affected areas to minimize heat exposure, avoid direct sunlight between 11:00 and 18:00, remain indoors when possible, and maintain adequate fluid intake.
The unusually intense heat is attributed to a subtropical anticyclone system originating from North Africa that is currently strengthening over the Mediterranean region. This weather pattern has contributed to broader temperature extremes across Europe, with several nations simultaneously battling extensive wildfires.
Across the continent, emergency responders in Greece, France, Portugal, and Spain are managing active blazes covering thousands of hectares. In France, a southeastern fire that had been controlled reignited on Friday, prompting the evacuation of approximately 2,500 people, though a major southwestern fire has been brought under control allowing residents to return home. Greece has evacuated hundreds of people, primarily tourists, by sea from coastal areas threatened by wildfires. Spain has seen more than 200,000 hectares burn in 2026 alone, significantly exceeding typical levels for this period, with Portugal also reporting above-average burned land.
Scientists attribute the intensifying heat and fire conditions to climate change, with Europe warming approximately twice as fast as the global average, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service. These rising temperatures are expected to produce more frequent and severe summer heatwaves, strain water resources, and increase wildfire intensity across the region.
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