Italy is bracing for a significant weather shift as oppressive heat, persisting for over 40 days with temperatures consistently above 30°C, is set to break.

The Civil Protection Department has issued a yellow alert for ten regions, including Emilia-Romagna, Valle d'Aosta, and parts of the Adriatic coast, with an orange alert for the hilly areas of Emilia-Romagna.

Temperatures are expected to drop by at least 10°C across the country within the next 12-36 hours.

While the day may start with clear skies and high temperatures, reaching up to 38°C in southern regions like Sicily and Sardinia, strong thunderstorms are anticipated, particularly in the northern and central regions.

These storms could bring hail and winds up to 100 km/h, especially in areas like Liguria, Tuscany, and the Veneto coast.

By Monday, torrential rains are expected to continue, particularly affecting the Adriatic side, with a gradual return to sunny weather by mid-week.