Italy was hit by an unprecedented heat wave

For several days now, Italy has been experiencing a great heat wave that affects many cities, especially those that are tourist destinations. As a result, the number of emergency admissions to hospitals in these areas has increased by 20 percent. The entire continent of Europe is struggling with the heat. In many countries, including France, Spain and Italy, temperatures are rising to unprecedented levels.

Extreme heat warnings

Italy’s health ministry has issued extreme heat warnings for 17 cities across the country, including Rome, Naples, Florence and Venice. The temperature in some areas rise to 40 °C and experts predict that the heat wave could last until the middle of August.

At such extreme temperatures, even healthy people can be at risk, according to Italian authorities. They have advised people in the affected areas not to go out during peak solar hours (11am to 6pm). The situation is particularly bad in Rome, where several people were absent from a meeting in Vatican Square.

Hospitals overflowed

As a result of the heat, hospitals and emergency services are struggling to cope with the influx of patients. Fabio De Iaco, president of the Italian Association for Emergency Medicine, has confirmed that emergency admissions have increased by 20 percent in recent days, especially among elderly people with pre-existing conditions.

Only about 1-2 percent of emergency cases require hospitalization, and others can be treated with simple rehydration measures. Due to overcrowding, doctors advise people not to go to the hospital for diseases that can be treated at home.

Despite the extreme heat, July 2023 one-day temperature records were not broken. However, authorities note that this is the highest heat wave in terms of its duration.

In short

• Italy has experienced a massive heat wave that has affected many cities.
• Hospitals have seen a 20 percent increase in emergency admissions due to the heat.
• Extreme heat warnings have been issued for 17 cities across the country.
• The Italian Ministry of Health has advised people to stay indoors during peak hours.

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