Red alerts have been issued for 16 cities across Italy as a prolonged heatwave continues to affect southern Europe. Popular tourist destinations including Rome, Florence, and Bologna are among the areas facing extreme heat in the coming days. The heatwave, which has already lasted longer than usual, has been accompanied by persistently high night-time temperatures.
The Italian government has advised residents and tourists in the affected areas to avoid direct sunlight between 11:00 and 18:00 and to take extra precautions for the elderly and vulnerable. The soaring temperatures, combined with overcrowding, have made it challenging for visitors to navigate cities like Rome. Gondoliers in Venice have described the heat as unbearable, with tourists experiencing discomfort from the scorching temperatures.
Greece has also experienced temperatures of 40C (104F) or higher in recent days. The iconic Acropolis in Athens, Greece’s most popular tourist attraction, was closed during the hottest hours of Friday and Saturday to protect visitors. Visitors have reported cases of heatstroke and medical emergencies due to the extreme heat. The Red Cross has been offering water and first aid to visitors at the site.
The heatwave has raised concerns about an increased risk of wildfires, particularly in areas with high winds. Greece, which experienced major wildfires in 2021 during another exceptional heatwave, is on high alert. Meanwhile, a forest fire on the Spanish island of La Palma has forced the evacuation of hundreds of people and destroyed several houses.
The heatwave is not limited to Southern Europe, as central parts of the continent, including Germany and Poland, are also experiencing high temperatures. The Czech Republic’s meteorological office has issued warnings of exceptionally high temperatures over the weekend. The UK, however, is expected to see cooler and unsettled weather due to the southern shift of the jet stream drawing low-pressure systems into the country.
The current heatwave, named Cerberus by the Italian Meteorological Society after the mythological three-headed dog, is expected to be followed by another heatwave named Charon next week. Meteorologists warn that temperatures could surpass 40C once again. Heatwaves are not only affecting Europe but are also being observed in other parts of the world, including the US, China, North Africa, and Japan.
With last month being the hottest June on record, climate experts emphasise that extreme weather events resulting from climate change are becoming increasingly common. The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) warns that such extreme weather is becoming the new normal, highlighting the urgency of addressing global warming and its consequences.
As the heat wave persists, authorities and communities continue to take precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors, while scientists and policymakers emphasise the need for collective action to mitigate the effects of climate change.
