Italy issues highest heat alert for 22 cities as temperatures soar

Italy has issued its highest-level weather alert for 22 cities, including Rome, as an intense heat wave grips the country, prompting health authorities to urge residents to take precautions against extreme temperatures.

The Italian Ministry of Health declared a red alert on June 29, warning that dangerous heat conditions pose risks to the entire population, particularly vulnerable groups such as children and older adults, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

The ministry said the red alert will be expanded to 25 cities on June 30 and July 1, including Bari, Bologna, Venice, Genoa, Naples, Florence and Milan.

Health officials advised people to stay indoors whenever possible, drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous physical activity during the hottest parts of the day.

The heat has also strained infrastructure. According to Italian newspaper La Repubblica, high temperatures in the Liguria region triggered power outages in some areas as electricity demand surged due to widespread use of air conditioning.

In Rome, authorities have set up a medical assistance station and a water-misting system near the Colosseum to help residents and tourists cope with the extreme heat.

The heat wave comes as Europe continues to experience unusually high temperatures. Earlier, World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that more than 1,300 people had died across Europe during a week of extreme heat.

By Sabina Mammadli