Summer 2026 continues to set new lows. On Thursday, August 6, the entire country will be affected by the highest heat alert level: all 27 cities monitored by the Ministry of Health's surveillance system will be marked with a red dot (Level 3), a scenario never recorded since the monitoring system was established.
Level 3 indicates weather conditions capable of producing negative effects on the health not only of the most vulnerable people, but also of the healthy population, especially in the presence of prolonged exposure to the sun and physical activity during the hottest hours of the day.
The cities affected are: Ancona, Bari, Bologna, Bolzano, Brescia, Cagliari, Campobasso, Catania, Civitavecchia, Florence, Frosinone, Genoa, Latina, Messina, Milan, Naples, Palermo, Perugia, Pescara, Reggio Calabria, Rieti, Rome, Turin, Trieste, Venice, Verona, and Viterbo.
The situation remains extremely critical even on Tuesday, August 4th, and Wednesday, August 5th. Only Messina and Reggio Calabria have not yet reached the maximum level, remaining at the orange level (Level 2), which still indicates high-risk conditions for the most vulnerable.
A summer that confirms the effects of climate change
The heat wave represents one of the most intense events of the summer of 2026 and confirms a now evident trend: extreme weather events are becoming more frequent, more intense, and longer lasting. High temperatures lasting several days, combined with the muggy heat and high nighttime temperatures, prevent the body from recovering and increase the risk of dehydration, heatstroke, and worsening cardiovascular and respiratory conditions.
Experts emphasize that extreme heat is not just a seasonal inconvenience, but a true health emergency that requires everyone to behave cautiously.
Expert advice: how to protect yourself from the heat
Health authorities recommend some simple but fundamental precautions.
Avoid going out and exercising between 11am and 18pm, when the heat is at its highest.
Drink water frequently, even when you're not thirsty, avoiding alcoholic beverages and limiting those high in sugar and caffeine.
Eat light meals, favoring fruits and vegetables rich in water and mineral salts.
Wear light, breathable clothing and protect your head with a hat.
Cool your home during the coolest hours of the day and use fans or air conditioners without creating excessive temperature changes.
Never leave people or animals inside parked cars, even for a few minutes.
Maximum attention to the elderly, children and vulnerable people
Those most exposed to the effects of heat waves are the elderly, very young children, pregnant women, chronically ill people, and those taking medications that can alter body temperature regulation.
It is important for older adults to maintain proper hydration even if they do not feel thirsty, avoid exertion, and regularly monitor for any symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, confusion, or difficulty breathing.
It is essential for children to offer water frequently, avoid direct exposure to the sun during the central hours of the day, and wear light clothing and protective hats.
Family members, neighbors, and caregivers also play an important role: a phone call or a visit can make a difference in ensuring that people who are alone or dependent on others are well and have access to water, fresh air, and assistance.
When to ask for help
If you experience high fever, loss of consciousness, mental confusion, difficulty breathing, or symptoms suggestive of heatstroke, you should contact emergency services immediately, and avoid ignoring signs of illness.
Thursday's heatwave alert represents an exceptional event in terms of its geographic scope and intensity. Adherence to health guidelines and special attention to the most vulnerable can help limit the consequences of one of the most severe heatwaves in recent years.
Practical tips for dealing with the heat wave
Here are some helpful tips to protect yourself during the heat alert.
- Avoid physical activity: Do not exercise between 11am and 18pm.
- Hydration: Drink water frequently, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Light meals: Eat light meals, focusing on fruits and vegetables.
- Appropriate clothing: Wear light, breathable clothing that protects your head.
- Checking for vulnerable people: Check the well-being of the elderly and vulnerable.
