Ticino Suffers Under Exceptional Heatwave

Ticino is sweltering under an unprecedented heatwave, with authorities raising the heat alert to level 4, signifying "strong danger" to health. This exceptional summer, marked by weeks of historic heat and drought, is severely impacting the territory and its residents.

MeteoSuisse data indicates that Ticino and the Moesano region in Graubünden are the areas in Switzerland most affected by heatwaves, recording the highest number of days with maximum temperatures above 30°C and tropical nights where minimum temperatures do not drop below 20°C. Some municipalities, including Locarno and Biasca, have been battling these extreme temperatures for over 60 consecutive days.

The relentless heat and persistent lack of precipitation are taking a significant toll. The water level in Lake Maggiore has dropped considerably, highlighting the widespread strain on both the environment and the population. If current trends continue, the summer of 2026 is projected to be the hottest ever recorded since measurements began in 1883.