by InTrieste
Italy is in the grip of its third heat wave of the summer, with forecasters warning that the most intense phase of the prolonged hot spell is expected to continue through the rest of the week.
Unlike shorter periods of extreme heat, this episode has been marked by its duration. For more than a week, daytime temperatures have remained well above seasonal averages, while nighttime lows have offered little relief. In many parts of the country, temperatures are running 7 to 8 degrees Celsius above the norm, increasing pressure on public health systems, infrastructure and energy networks.
Meteorologists expect the subtropical high-pressure system driving the heat to reach its greatest extent over the central Mediterranean on Thursday. Forecasts indicate temperatures could reach 41–42°C in parts of Sardinia, around 40°C in Puglia, and close to 39°C in Tuscany. Across the Po Valley, highs are expected to range between 37°C and 39°C, while Rome is forecast to remain around 36–37°C and Milan between 36°C and 38°C, with high humidity. In the northeastern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, temperatures are expected to reach about 35°C in the plains around Udine and Pordenone.
Health officials have expanded heat alerts as conditions worsen. On Wednesday, Florence, Perugia, Brescia and Turin were placed under the highest-level red warning, indicating conditions that pose health risks to the entire population, not only vulnerable groups. Eleven additional cities, including Rome, Bologna and Verona, were under orange alerts, while Trieste was among several cities issued a yellow warning. Authorities in the Veneto region also declared a yellow alert for heat-related health risks.
One of the defining features of this heat wave has been the persistence of unusually warm nights. In several northern cities, including Milan, Bologna, Verona and Padua, overnight temperatures are expected to remain above 26°C for consecutive nights. Rome is also forecast to experience nighttime lows above 24°C. The phenomenon, often referred to as “tropical nights,” occurs as asphalt, concrete and buildings slowly release heat absorbed during the day, preventing significant overnight cooling.
Experts say the extended period of high temperatures increases the risk of dehydration, heat-related illnesses and stress on electrical infrastructure, with several localized power outages already reported during the current heat wave.
Health authorities continue to advise residents to stay hydrated, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, and eat light meals rich in fruit and vegetables. Officials also recommend limiting outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day, particularly for older adults, children and people with underlying health conditions.
