Italy Heatwave Claims Five Lives, Prompts Highest Alert in 18 Cities

Italy is grappling with a severe heatwave, which has claimed five lives and led to the highest level of heat warning being issued for 18 cities. The extreme temperatures are straining public services and cultural heritage sites across the country.

Two farmers in the northern provinces of Lodi and Piacenza, a homeless person in Naples, and a man in Garlasco near Pavia were among the victims. The decision to expand the red alert, which signifies severe weather posing health risks to all individuals, was made after a meeting of a technical committee led by Health Minister Orazio Schillaci.

Cultural attractions are feeling the heat. The Uffizi Gallery in Florence suspended ticket sales due to air conditioning system failures, and Juliet's House in Verona will close to visitors starting Friday because of the heat and crowds. Court sessions in Palermo have also been suspended.

In Milan, tourists sought refuge from the sun near the Duomo cathedral. Local media have reported a 20 percent surge in emergency room admissions in the Lombardy region. Meteorologists predict temperatures will reach their peak over the weekend, with Italy being one of several European nations experiencing early summer heat.