Italy is bracing for a significant heatwave as temperatures are set to rise sharply, reaching up to 37°C in the central and southern regions.

The Ministry of Health has issued a yellow alert for heat risk in seven cities, including Rome and Bolzano, with the number expected to increase to twelve by Friday.

While the north will experience more cloud cover and potential evening showers, particularly in Piedmont, the rest of the country will see mostly sunny skies with occasional afternoon thunderstorms in mountainous areas and Sicily.

The African anticyclone is driving this heatwave, with the hottest temperatures expected in Siracusa, Agrigento, and other southern cities.

Despite some relief from sporadic showers, the heat will persist, with no significant weather changes anticipated until September.