Heatwave hits peak in Italy as red alerts expand to all monitored cities

The extreme summer heatwave gripping Europe has reached a new peak, with temperatures in Italy consistently exceeding 40°C in several regions. Italy's Ministry of Health issued maximum red alert warnings for 25 out of 27 monitored cities through Wednesday, with Messina and Reggio Calabria remaining at orange alert. By Thursday, all 27 cities are projected to reach red alert status, marking an unprecedented level for the country's heat monitoring system.

Forecasters indicate that the Saharan heat crest will persist until at least August 9 before conditions begin to ease slightly. The ongoing drought and elevated temperatures continue to affect infrastructure across the continent, where total economic damage is estimated at €3 billion. In Romania, military operations were required along the Danube River to clear submerged rock formations and redirect water flows to cool the Cernavodă nuclear facility.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, Il Sole 24 Ore, La Repubblica.