A new heatwave is affecting Italy and is expected to last approximately twenty days, making it the longest of the current summer. Temperatures are running 7-8 degrees above the seasonal average.

Currently 19 cities are under a red alert, indicating the maximum level of health risk for the population. This is the fourth heatwave of the season, already in progress for thirteen days at the time of reporting.

According to weather forecasts the phenomenon is linked to an evolution of the African anticyclone, whose configuration is showing unusual characteristics compared to previous years. A further continuation of the hot conditions is expected over the coming week.