Meteo Milano: African Heat Wave Peaks, Air Quality Worsens
Milan is bracing for an intense week as an African heat wave pushes temperatures to near-record highs. According to the latest updates, the city will experience daytime highs soaring to 37°C on Monday, with a slight dip to 36°C on Tuesday before climbing back to 37°C on Wednesday and reaching a scorching 38°C by Thursday. Nights offer little relief, with lows hovering around 25-26°C. The heat is expected to persist through the weekend, with temperatures remaining above 30°C, making it crucial for residents to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
The current conditions at 1:46 AM show a temperature of 28°C with a waning gibbous moon, and the forecast indicates mostly clear skies with a few passing clouds. However, the real concern lies in the air quality, which is rated as ‘Mediocre’ and remains unchanged. The concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is at 10 µg/m³, a level that could pose health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. The stagnant atmospheric conditions, typical of high-pressure systems, are trapping pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the situation.
This heat wave is part of a broader pattern affecting all of Italy, with temperatures approaching 40°C in Florence and Bologna, and 38°C in Milan, Turin, and Rome. The Italian meteorological service has issued warnings about the intensifying heat, which is expected to peak midweek. The high temperatures are also increasing the risk of wildfires and placing strain on energy grids as air conditioning usage spikes. Local authorities are advising people to limit outdoor activities during peak hours (11 AM to 6 PM) and to check on neighbors who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Looking ahead, the forecast for the next 15 days suggests that the heat will continue, with only a slight moderation expected after August 9th. The weekend of August 8-9 will see temperatures drop to 32°C and 31°C respectively, offering some relief. However, the long-term outlook indicates that this pattern of extreme heat may become
Shimanta Das 
