Temperatures around the country were set to soar again from Thursday after heavy rain pummelled large parts of the peninsula earlier this week, with Italy’s Civil Protection department issuing a ‘yellow’ weather alert for 10 regions on Tuesday.

The mercury was forecast to reach highs of 34-36C in the centre and south, and 39C on major islands Sicily and Sardinia over the weekend, according to the latest forecasts. 

Daytime temperatures in the north were expected to range between 30 and 32C.

A total of six major cities, including Rome and Florence, were set to be under the highest-level ‘red’ heat warning on Thursday.

A red warning signifies conditions that pose a potential health risk to the general population, as well as to more vulnerable groups in society (the elderly, children and people affected by chronic illnesses), according to the health ministry.

Five cities, including Bologna and Verona, were set to be under a medium-high ‘amber’ warning on Thursday.

The upcoming heatwave was forecast to ease off by Tuesday, September 3rd, according to long-term projections.

Italy’s health ministry has issued red warnings multiple times in recent weeks in relation to the risks posed by prolonged periods of intense heat, as well as high humidity levels.

The ministry advises people in Italy to spend the afternoon indoors whenever possible, avoid physical exertion and drink “at least one and a half litres” of water a day.

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Heatwaves have become more frequent and intense in Italy and across Europe in recent years due to the effects of climate change, scientists say.