by InTrieste
As temperatures soar across Friuli Venezia Giulia, the region’s environmental protection agency, ARPA, has issued a severe heat alert, expected to last until Tuesday night, with the possibility of extending into Wednesday and Thursday. The alert predicts maximum temperatures ranging from 35 to 38 degrees Celsius (95 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit) in the plains, with slightly lower temperatures along the coast.
In a statement, ASUGI, the region’s health agency, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, pointing to the Regional Operational Plan for the Prevention of Heat Effects on Health. This plan aims to mitigate the impact of extreme heat on the population’s well-being.
ARPA’s technical bulletin highlights specific areas of concern for Tuesday, utilizing the Thom index, a measure that combines temperature and humidity to reflect perceived heat and discomfort. On Tuesday, July 16, the Thom index is expected to exceed 2 (orange – discomfort) for the hilly areas and the upper and middle plains. More alarmingly, it is projected to surpass 3 (red – severe discomfort) for the western coastal areas.
The forecast suggests that by Wednesday, July 17, and Thursday, July 18, most of the region could experience severe discomfort due to the extreme heat. In the plains, temperatures are expected to peak between 35°C and 38°C, while coastal areas will experience only slightly lower temperatures.
Trieste on Red Alert
Trieste, in particular, has been placed under a red alert by the Ministry of Health. The heat bulletin from the Ministry underscores Trieste as one of the cities facing the most extreme conditions, at least until Wednesday.
As residents brace for the intense heat, local authorities are urging caution and advising measures to stay cool and hydrated. The prolonged heat wave underscores the growing need for effective heat management strategies in response to climate change’s escalating impacts.
