Italy is bracing for an intensification of extreme heat as a subtropical anticyclone originating from North Africa strengthens over the Mediterranean. By Monday, 25 out of the country's 27 major cities are expected to be on the highest heat alert level, known as red alert. Only Reggio Calabria and Messina are forecast to remain on the second-highest amber alert.
Currently, 19 major cities, including Rome, Milan, and Naples, are already under red alert. The Italian health ministry has issued guidance for residents in affected areas, urging them to avoid prolonged exposure to heat and direct sunlight between 11:00 and 18:00, stay indoors, and maintain adequate hydration.
This severe heatwave is occurring amidst ongoing firefighting efforts across several European countries. Greece, France, Portugal, and Spain are all battling wildfires that have consumed thousands of hectares of land. In southeastern France, approximately 2,500 individuals were evacuated from the Var region on Friday evening due to a wildfire that reignited. However, a significant fire in the Gironde region has been brought under control, allowing about 200,000 evacuated residents to return home. Hundreds of people, predominantly tourists, have been evacuated by sea from a coastal town in Viotia, Greece, to escape wildfires.
Spain has reported over 200,000 hectares of land burned in 2026, a figure roughly five times the average for this time of year, according to EU data. Portugal has also experienced higher-than-usual burnt land areas. Climate change is recognized as a significant factor contributing to rising global temperatures, with Europe warming at twice the global average. This trend is leading to more frequent and intense summer heatwaves, increased pressure on water resources, and a greater risk of severe wildfires across the continent.