Record-breaking, prolonged heatwave prompts health alerts and glacier retreat in Italy.

A record-breaking heatwave in Italy has raised concerns, with temperatures on Mont Blanc remaining above freezing for nearly 33 hours, an unprecedented occurrence. This year marks the third consecutive year of intense, prolonged, and dry heatwaves in Italy, affecting major cities and remote Alpine regions. Temperatures have risen above freezing on Mont Blanc three times, accelerating the retreat of massive glaciers. The heatwave has prompted "red" alerts for health risks in 17 of Italy's 27 largest cities, with temperatures expected to cool starting next Sunday, accompanied by thunderstorms.

August 12, 2024
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