Italy places most major cities on highest heat alert

A red‑alert warning has been issued for 19 of Italy’s largest cities, including Rome, Milan and Naples, as the country braces for an intense heat wave. The alert, which signals potentially hazardous temperatures and heightened fire risk, was activated on Friday and is set to expand further, with all but two of the targeted municipalities expected to be under red alert by Monday.

The Ministry of Civil Protection and regional authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities during peak heat, stay hydrated, and follow guidance from local health services. Schools in the affected areas are preparing to adjust schedules, while public transport operators are monitoring service reliability amid the extreme conditions. Authorities will continue to assess weather data and may modify the alert status as the heat wave progresses.