Italy Faces Record Heat and Water Emergency Amid Summer Exodus
As the last weekend of July approaches, Italy is bracing for extreme heat, with temperatures expected to reach a scorching 40 degrees Celsius. This heat wave coincides with millions of Italians traveling to holiday destinations, prompting Anas to suspend 70% of construction sites until September 3rd to facilitate smoother traffic. However, the return of Charon, the heat wave, poses risks to water supplies, particularly in southern regions like Calabria, which has declared a state of emergency, and Sicily, relying on Navy tankers to address the crisis.
The traditional summer exodus is set to begin, with Anas implementing a red sticker for road travel from Saturday morning through Sunday. The agency has bolstered its workforce, suspending 906 construction sites along major routes, especially those leading to popular holiday resorts along the Adriatic, Tyrrhenian, and Ionian coasts. Anas CEO Aldo Isi reassured the public of efforts to ensure fluid traffic flow despite the anticipated congestion. Meanwhile, accommodation facilities report high booking rates, with Assoturismo estimating that 8 out of 10 rooms will be occupied, leading to over 6.4 million expected overnight stays.
Despite the tourism surge, the heat exacerbates the ongoing drought crisis affecting central and southern Italy. The governor of Calabria, Roberto Occhiuto, has declared a regional state of emergency, particularly in the Crotone and Reggino areas. The Navy's arrival in Sicily with 1,200 cubic meters of water highlights the urgency of the situation. Agricultural experts warn that without immediate action, water shortages for agriculture in the South could occur within three weeks. Coldiretti has raised alarms about the dire conditions faced by crops and livestock, urging the government to declare a climate crisis.
South Korea Experiences First Heat Wave Warning of the Summer
In South Korea, the first heat wave warning of the summer has been issued in Seoul, with temperatures expected to exceed 35 degrees Celsius for more than two days. Reporter Kim Min-jun describes the oppressive heat and high humidity, making it feel like a wet sauna. The city has raised its heat wave response level to 'alert' as it monitors the situation closely. Unlike last year, when the warning was issued earlier in July, this year's delay is attributed to an extended rainy season.
The heat is expected to persist into the night, with temperatures remaining above 27 degrees Celsius, leading to what is termed a 'tropical night.' This phenomenon has been observed for several consecutive days in various regions, making it difficult for residents to sleep. Amid the heat, monsoon rains are forecasted, with significant rainfall expected in the central and southern regions, including Jeju Island. Authorities are urging citizens to take precautions against heat-related illnesses as they navigate these extreme weather conditions.
- In Italy, the heat wave is not just a concern for travelers but also poses significant threats to agriculture and livestock. The declaration of a state of emergency in Calabria and the reliance on Navy tankers in Sicily underscore the severity of the water crisis. The agricultural sector is particularly vulnerable, with Coldiretti emphasizing the urgent need for government intervention to address the impending water shortages that could devastate crops and livestock. In South Korea, the heat wave warning has prompted officials to enhance monitoring and support systems to protect citizens from heat-related health issues. The prolonged high temperatures and humidity levels can lead to increased health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
