Red alerts were issued in Rome, Florence, Perugia, Turin, Bologna, Bolzano, Brescia, Frosinone, Genoa, Pescara, Rieti, Trieste and Verona as temperatures rose into the 40s across the nation.
The maximum heat warnings covered much of northern and central Italy, while many southern areas remained relatively cool.
Lower amber alerts were also issued in many areas across the nation.
This indicates “high temperatures that can have negative effects on the health of the population,” the Italian Health Ministry said.
The ministry added that the heat is particularly risky for people over 75 years old and children under three, as well as people in poor health.
But even those in good physical health are in danger of suffering from dehydration, sunstroke, sunburn and exhaustion.
The health ministry has urged people to take precautions and to check on those at risk or living alone during the heatwave.
It has also advised people not to call the emergency services unless completely necessary, to avoid exhausting resources in the extreme conditions.
The Italian Red Cross has set up a 24-hour hotline that people can call for free for advice and assistance: 800 065 510.
