Italy faces third heatwave as wildfires intensify

Italy is preparing for its third summer heatwave, driven by an African anticyclone, which is predicted to push temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius in central and southern areas, including Sicily and Sardinia. The intense heat is exacerbating forest fires in multiple regions.

Temperatures are expected to reach 38-39 degrees Celsius inland, particularly in Lazio and Tuscany. Sardinia is forecast to be the most affected, with potential highs exceeding 42 degrees Celsius. Even northern plains and alpine regions will experience significant heat, though thunderstorms are anticipated. Minimum temperatures are projected to remain above 20 degrees Celsius nationwide.

The extreme heat has fueled the spread of fires. In Olbia, Sardinia, a fire near a main road forced the temporary closure of Costa Smeralda Airport, diverting flights. The region of Piedmont in the northwest is facing its most severe wildfire emergency, with 800-900 hectares burned. Authorities have described the situation as an "ecological catastrophe," estimating the loss of up to 700,000 trees in the hardest-hit areas.

Ecological recovery in Piedmont is expected to be slow. Pioneer plant species like grasses and shrubs may return within two to five years to help stabilize the soil, but the development of a young forest and the return of wildlife could take 15 to 20 years. The current heatwave is expected to persist until around Saturday, July 18, when a weather front from northern Europe might bring changes to the northern regions.