Heat wave and water shortage: risky vacation in Italy?

Heat wave and water shortage: risky vacation in Italy?

With the start of the summer holidays in some federal states, vacation plans are coming into focus for many families, especially for trips to Italy. But that Foreign Office has updated its travel advice due to an ongoing heatwave in Italy. The expected temperatures are expected to reach up to 40 degrees in the coming days, with Tuscany and Lazio particularly affected. Temperatures above 30 degrees are also forecast in the Po Valley, including Lombardy as well as in Milan and Rome.

A threatening water shortage is emerging, which is particularly noticeable in the south and center of Italy. According to the Italian environmental agency ISPRA, the medium drought warning level has been declared for these regions. The situation is particularly critical in Sicily, where the highest red alert exists and water resources are at great risk. Given these circumstances, the Foreign Office warns of a significant water shortage in the central and southern regions of the country.

Dramatic effects of drought

The heat wave, which reaches its peak between June 28th and July 2nd, causes temperatures in the south to rise to up to 45 degrees, with temperatures even reaching 47 degrees in some places. These extreme conditions are leading to an increase in emergency room visits, particularly among the elderly and immunocompromised. The BR reports that water for showers and garden irrigation is rationed in Sicily. Residents rely on cisterns and tankers to meet daily water needs.

Some hotels are struggling with the restrictions and may not be able to provide enough water for pools. In these cases, holidaymakers are entitled to compensation if pools remain empty or shower times are restricted. The second half of 2023 was the driest in Sicily since 1921, with rainfall falling by about 80 percent. Lago Pozillo, the island's largest reservoir, hardly has any water left.

Health information and tips

Markus Pillmayer recommends travelers to exercise particular caution and find out about the current weather and climate conditions, especially for people over 50 years old. German holidaymakers are often not used to such extreme temperatures, which can result in health problems such as circulatory problems, sunstroke or dehydration. Holidaymakers should adapt to the daily rhythm of the locals and avoid the midday heat.

The Federal Institute for Public Health gives valuable tips for hot summer days: Physical activities should be postponed to the cooler morning and evening hours; it is important to keep the body cool, drink enough and eat lightly. In addition, sun protection should be used when spending time outdoors and medicines should be checked for their heat tolerance. Special attention should also be paid to the elderly and children.

For the residents of Sicily there is hope for heavier rains in the coming winter, but this could largely not occur. Experts predict that 2024 could go down in history as the rainiest year and the most severe drought in over two decades. Long-term forecasts indicate that around 70 percent of the island could be turned into a desert by 2050.