Med destinations on alert as 40C+ heatwave scorches southern Europe

Italian authorities have put several regions such as Sicily and Sardinia on alert, with temperatures expected to peak at 48C due to anti-cyclone Cerberus, a high-pressure front coming from the Sahara.

The BBC reports temperatures will likely surpass 40C in parts of Spain, France, Greece, Croatia and Turkey, while the Met Office said heatwave conditions would likely peak on Friday (14 July).

In Spain, temperatures will exceed 37C in southern cities such as Cordoba and Sevilla, while Greek media have reported several archeological sites may close due to the extreme heat.

According to the reports, authorities are looking at increasing the shade available at the Acropolis in Athens, as well as handing out water to tourists to prevent sudden illnesses.