At least five heat-related deaths reported amidst Italy’s prolonged heatwave

Italy continues to grapple with an intense heatwave that has persisted for over a week, with at least five fatalities attributed to extreme temperatures.

Two victims, aged 75 and 60, succumbed while on beaches in Sardinia, where scorching conditions have been exacerbated by widespread wildfires. Temperatures on the island have soared above 40°C in recent days, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

In Genoa, an 85-year-old man died of heart failure in a hospital emergency unit after being admitted for dehydration, highlighting the severe health risks posed by the heat. These three deaths on Wednesday follow earlier fatalities, including a 47-year-old construction worker near Bologna on Monday and a 53-year-old woman who collapsed and died while walking in Palermo.

In response to the escalating crisis, Italy’s health ministry has issued a maximum ‘red’ heat alert for 18 major cities on July 3, including Rome, Milan, Turin, Bologna, Genoa, and Palermo. This highest level of warning signifies that the heat poses a danger not only to vulnerable groups but also to young and healthy individuals.

To mitigate risks, a national recommendation has been introduced to suspend outdoor work during the peak heat hours, particularly affecting sectors such as construction and agriculture. However, this measure remains non-mandatory, and many workers continue their usual schedules despite the extreme conditions.

By Vafa Guliyeva