Record-High Temperatures Expected in Italy as Heatwave Sweeps Across Europe
ROME, July 18 (Reuters) – Italy is bracing itself for scorching temperatures as a heatwave blankets the country, joining other parts of Europe, Asia, and the United States that are experiencing extreme weather conditions. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has warned of an increased risk of deaths due to the heatwave.
Forecasters predict that temperatures could reach record highs in Italy, with the Mediterranean island of Sardinia potentially seeing temperatures above 47 degrees Celsius (116 degrees Fahrenheit). Several Italian cities, including Rome, are expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), with temperatures as high as 42-43 degrees Celsius (107-109 degrees Fahrenheit) in the Lazio region.
The heatwave has coincided with devastating wildfires in Greece and the Swiss Alps, as well as deadly flooding in India and South Korea. These extreme weather events underline the urgency of climate change mitigation efforts, especially in countries like the United States and China, the world’s top greenhouse gas polluters.
U.S. climate envoy John Kerry recently met with Chinese officials in Beijing and expressed hope that climate cooperation between the two powers could redefine their troubled relationship. Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized Beijing’s commitment to carbon neutrality and a carbon peak, independent of external influence.
The WMO has warned that temperatures in various parts of North America, Asia, North Africa, and the Mediterranean will exceed 40 degrees Celsius for an extended period this week as the heatwave intensifies. Health risks associated with high temperatures, such as heart attacks and fatalities, are particularly heightened during overnight hours.
The heatwave is also likely to have long-term implications for tourism, as travelers may opt for cooler destinations or choose to visit during spring or autumn seasons. Tourism organizations anticipate a shift in tourist preferences as a result of rising temperatures in Europe.
Scientists have repeatedly warned about the increased frequency, intensity, and deadliness of heatwaves as a consequence of climate change. They emphasize the need for immediate and drastic emission reduction measures to prevent further climate catastrophes.
Last year, an estimated 61,000 people died in heatwaves across Europe alone. The European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service identifies 2022 and 2021 as the continent’s hottest summers on record. Italy recorded its highest-ever temperature of 48.8 degrees Celsius (119.8 degrees Fahrenheit) in Sicily two years ago.
In response to the heatwave, locals and tourists in Rome have resorted to innovative ways to cool off, such as splashing water from fountains and seeking shelter under giant fans near the iconic Colosseum. However, the excessive heat has resulted in long queues for taxis due to a shortage of cabs in the city.
Italy’s health ministry has issued red weather alerts for 20 of the country’s 27 main cities on Tuesday, with the number expected to rise to 23 on Wednesday. Carlo Spanu, from the Italian air force’s weather service, warned that temperatures could surpass 47 degrees Celsius (116.6 degrees Fahrenheit) and potentially break historical records.
As the heatwave continues, travelers like Anita Elshoy and her husband have cut their trips short due to heat-related health issues. Elshoy experienced symptoms such as severe headaches, swollen fingers, and dizziness. In Spain, northeastern regions and the island of Mallorca are on high alert for temperatures ranging between 42 degrees Celsius (107.6 degrees Fahrenheit) and 44 degrees Celsius (111.2 degrees Fahrenheit).
Nighttime temperatures in many parts of Europe have also remained exceptionally high, increasing the risk of health complications for vulnerable populations. Greece has issued warnings to citizens near a forest fire in Dervenochoria, north of Athens, to take precautions as smoke engulfs the area.
In China, Typhoon Talim has caused widespread damage, including fallen trees, a stranded whale, and flooded streets carrying away an ice cream freezer. The typhoon is the first to make landfall in the country this year.
As the heatwave persists and extreme weather events continue to ravage different parts of the globe, the need for concerted international efforts to combat climate change becomes increasingly urgent.
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