New heatwave hits Italy: Naples nears 36 degrees, peaks up to 41

A new and intense heat wave is poised to hit Italy. The African anticyclone will return in the coming days, bringing widespread sunshine, muggy temperatures, and temperatures up to 7 degrees above the seasonal average. In some cities, temperatures could reach, or even locally exceed, 40 degrees.

According to forecasts released by the Italian Air Force, the central core of the subtropical high pressure system will be positioned anomalously between France and northern Italy. This configuration could favor exceptionally high temperatures, especially over the northern plains and inland areas of central and southern Italy.

Naples nears 36 degrees

Temperatures will begin to rise significantly in the next few hours. On Tuesday, temperatures are expected to reach 37 degrees Celsius in Terni and 36 degrees Celsius in Rome, Naples, and Florence.

In Campania, the heat will gradually increase starting Wednesday, with generally stable conditions and partly cloudy or clear skies. Inland areas could see the highest temperatures: Benevento is among the cities where temperatures could reach 40 degrees Celsius by the end of the week.

Along the coast, Naples is expected to experience slightly lower temperatures than inland, but these temperatures will be accompanied by heat and high temperatures, even at night.

Up to 41 degrees between Central and North Italy

The most extreme peaks are expected between Thursday and the weekend. Florence and Terni could reach
41 degrees, while 40 degrees are expected in Alessandria, Asti, Benevento, Cremona, Ferrara, Lodi, Mantua, Modena, Parma, Piacenza, Prato and Reggio Emilia.

In Rome, temperatures could reach 39-40 degrees Celsius; Milan could fluctuate between 38 and 39 degrees. Furthermore, in the Alps, freezing levels are expected around 5.000 meters above sea level, indicative of the exceptional intensity of the incoming warm air mass.

The last storms before stability

Before the high pressure consolidates, there will be some episodes of instability. Between Tuesday and Wednesday, locally strong thunderstorms are expected in Sicily, with possible storms also along the Apennines. Some showers may also affect the eastern Alps and the surrounding plains.
Subsequently, the subtropical promontory should establish itself more decisively, ensuring clear skies and fully summery conditions across much of the country.

Warm at least until August 10th

The trend points to a long period of stability, sunshine, and high temperatures at least until August 10th. This period will require special attention for the elderly, children, vulnerable individuals, and workers exposed to the sun, especially in cities and inland areas where the urban heat island effect can make the weather even more challenging.