Humidity peaks at 97% in Liguria as in a Turkish bath

The Italian peninsula is experiencing an intense heatwave that is expected to persist through the upcoming holiday of Ferragosto, which falls on August 15. Meteorological forecasts indicate that temperatures will remain consistently high, with many regions seeing readings well above seasonal averages. The weather pattern is dominated by a persistent anticyclonic system originating from the subtropical belt, creating a dome of heat that has led to increasingly oppressive conditions. This prolonged period of extreme heat has already resulted in several incidents, including reports of fish deaths in coastal areas of South Korea due to elevated water temperatures. In Italy, the situation is equally severe, with forecasters warning that temperatures could reach up to 40°C in some inland and lowland areas. These conditions are particularly dangerous during the evening and night hours, especially along coasts and in urban centers, where heat retention is more pronounced. Meteorologist Federico Brescia from iLMeteo.it explains that while the current weather pattern shows little sign of change, there may be a potential shift in atmospheric circulation starting around August 17. Early indications suggest that the high-pressure system might begin to weaken, though this remains uncertain given the time frame involved. If cooler air does manage to move into the region, it could lead to sudden and potentially violent weather changes, given the already high surface temperatures of the Mediterranean Sea, which have reached levels comparable to tropical waters. Throughout the week leading up to Ferragosto, the heat has continued to pose risks to public health, prompting authorities to issue warnings and activate emergency protocols. As of today, 19 cities across Italy have been marked with the red heat alert, indicating the highest level of risk for general population health. Additional alerts have been issued for specific vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and children, in six other locations. The impact of the heat extends beyond human health, affecting transportation systems and infrastructure. Rail services face disruptions due to planned maintenance work on key routes, which could cause delays for travelers. Meanwhile, road traffic has shown a slight decrease compared to previous years, with approximately 22.5 million vehicles recorded over the weekend, marking a small decline from the previous year's figures. Emergency services continue to operate under heightened conditions, responding to both heat-related emergencies and wildfires that have broken out in multiple regions. Efforts to control fires have been ongoing in Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, and Lazio, with new blazes emerging despite earlier containment efforts. Firefighters are working tirelessly to prevent further spread and protect local communities. As the heatwave continues, residents are advised to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses, including staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activities during peak hours, and seeking shelter in cool environments. With the possibility of a change in weather patterns beginning around midweek, attention remains focused on monitoring developments and preparing for any possible shifts in the climate outlook.