Extreme weather in Italy: 16 cities on red alert for heat and storm warnings in Lombardy

Italy is experiencing the peak of its third heatwave, a situation that has prompted authorities to issue a red alert in 16 cities across the country. However, while most of the peninsula is grappling with scorching temperatures, the northern region is expected to be hit by completely opposite weather, with powerful storms on the horizon.

According to official reports, the number of cities under red alert has risen sharply in recent days. On Wednesday, July 15, only 7 cities were in this situation, while on Thursday, July 16, the figure doubled to 15. Today, Friday, July 17, authorities confirmed that 16 cities are under this maximum alert level due to extreme heat.

The full list of cities under red alert includes: Bologna, Brescia, Bari, Campobasso, Florence, Frosinone, Genoa, Latina, Milan, Palermo, Perugia, Pescara, Rieti, Rome, Turin and Viterbo.

At a lower risk level, but still concerning for public health, are the cities of Ancona, Civitavecchia, Messina and Naples, which have been placed under an orange alert. Experts warn that the high temperatures in these areas pose a serious threat, especially to the most vulnerable groups.

Beyond the heatwave, a marked change in weather conditions is expected in northern Italy. Authorities have issued a warning for severe storms in the Lombardy region, with a risk of intense rain and hail that will affect the entire Po Valley. Also, due to weather instability, the regions of Emilia-Romagna and Veneto have been placed under a yellow alert.