Swimmers jump from a bridge into the Canal Saint-Martin as France experiences a heatwave, in Paris on June 22, 2026.
Italy's health ministry declared a red heatwave alert in 15 cities, including Milan and Rome, on Tuesday and said the number would go up to 16 on Wednesday.
During a red alert -- the highest level -- the ministry advises people to eat light, stay indoors in the hottest parts of the day and sprinkle themselves with cool water.
Scientists have shown that recurring heatwaves are a clear marker of global warming, and warn they are set to become more frequent, longer and more intense.
French Sports and Youth Minister Marina Ferrari told the France Inter broadcaster Tuesday that around 20 people had drowned since the beginning of the weekend, urging swimmers flocking to the country's waters in a bid to beat the heat to respect safety rules.
