Florence heat alert raised to orange level as temperatures climb

Florence is set to experience the first significant heatwave of the season, with health authorities issuing an orange heat alert for Tuesday as temperatures are expected to rise further across the city.

According to Italy’s national heatwave monitoring system coordinated by the Ministry of Health, Florence is under a yellow alert on Monday 25 May 2026, with a perceived maximum temperature of 31C. The warning level is expected to increase to orange on Tuesday 26 May, when temperatures could reach 33C, and the alert may remain in place on Wednesday 27 May.

The forecasts are produced by the Epidemiology Department of the Lazio Regional Health Service as part of the national system for monitoring and preventing the health effects of extreme heat.

What the orange alert means

An orange alert, classified as “Level 2”, indicates weather conditions that may pose health risks, especially for more vulnerable groups including older adults, people with chronic illnesses, those taking regular medication, infants and young children. 

Italy’s heatwave alert system uses four levels, from green (Level 0) to red (Level 3). An orange alert signals conditions that can have negative effects on public health, particularly for vulnerable people, even before a prolonged heatwave develops. 

Advice for residents

The City of Florence has reminded residents to take precautions during the hottest hours of the day. Authorities recommend avoiding direct sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., drinking plenty of water, limiting intense outdoor physical activity and checking on relatives or neighbours who may be more exposed to heat-related risks. 

The Ministry of Health also advises people to stay in the coolest rooms available, use air conditioning carefully, wear light clothing and avoid leaving children, older people or animals inside parked cars, even for short periods.

(Cover photo: Fábio Gamallo from Pixabay)

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