The severe heatwave sweeping across Europe is creating increasingly alarming conditions in Italy, where at least five people have died as a result of extreme temperatures. Meteorologists have warned that temperatures in parts of the country could reach as high as 41 degrees Celsius by next weekend, potentially worsening an already critical situation.
Four additional heat-related deaths were reported across Italy on Tuesday and Wednesday. Earlier, a 57-year-old laborer died while working in a field in the Lodi region. The latest victims include a 61-year-old vineyard worker in Piacenza Province, a 56-year-old man in Garlasco, a homeless individual in Naples, and a worker in Padua.
The impact of the intense heat has extended beyond public health, affecting the country’s tourism sector as well. Florence’s world-renowned Uffizi Gallery has restricted visitor access after its air-conditioning system malfunctioned under the strain of soaring temperatures. Ticket sales were also temporarily suspended.
In response to the worsening conditions, Italian Health Minister Orazio Schillaci convened an emergency technical meeting. He said special measures would be implemented to protect vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and those with underlying health conditions. Discussions are also underway regarding additional safeguards for workers employed in construction, agriculture, and other outdoor sectors.
Meanwhile, the heatwave has placed significant pressure on the country’s electricity infrastructure. Hundreds of households and businesses in the Abruzzo region, particularly in Pescara and Teramo, have experienced power outages. In some areas, disruptions to sewage systems have further compounded public hardship.
According to meteorologists, the unusually high temperatures are being driven by hot air masses moving northward from North Africa. The intensity of the heat is expected to increase further in the coming days, especially across northern Italy.
Experts warn that not only daytime temperatures but also unusually warm nights are posing serious health risks. In many areas, nighttime temperatures are forecast to remain above 26–27 degrees Celsius, limiting relief from the heat and increasing risks for elderly and medically vulnerable individuals.
Authorities have indicated that additional nationwide precautionary measures could be introduced if conditions continue to deteriorate.
Source: Italian Meteorological Service and international news agencies.