It was the warmest day in Milan since 1763.
Milan, the vibrant northern city of Italy, experienced an extraordinary meteorological milestone this week.
The temperature soared to a scorching 33 degrees Celsius (91.4 degrees Fahrenheit) on Wednesday, marking an all-time high for the area. This sizzling surge in temperature comes as the climax of a heatwave that had its beginnings in mid-August. The regional environmental protection agency, known as ARPA, confirmed this new record, underscoring the concerning effects of climate change on our planet.
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that it surpasses any temperature recorded since data collection began way back in 1763 at the Milano Brera weather station. Before this, the highest registered temperature for Milan was 32.8 degrees Celsius, a record set on August 11, 2003. This new milestone serves as a stark reminder of the intensifying heatwaves in recent times.
But Milan isn’t the sole city experiencing such temperature extremities. Rome, Italy’s capital, faced its own heat-related challenges, reaching a staggering 41.8 degrees Celsius (°C) in July. Throughout southern Europe, including Italy, soaring temperatures have led to a host of issues ranging from wildfires engulfing landscapes to governments issuing health advisories. Tourists have found their vacation plans disrupted due to these unexpected and intense weather conditions.
ARPA conveyed in a statement that August 23 and 24 emerged as the hottest days of the entire summer season across Lombardy, the region encircling Milan. Many towns within this region reported peak temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. These extreme temperatures have even made their mark in the usually cool Italian Alps, a testament to the far-reaching impact of this heatwave.
However, there’s a silver lining on the horizon. ARPA predicts that the heatwave is nearing its end, giving way to a dramatic shift in weather. Heavy thunderstorms are expected to roll in, accompanied by a substantial temperature drop of 10-15 degrees Celsius. As we observe this natural variability, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the importance of addressing climate change and its consequences.
In conclusion, Milan’s recent temperature record-breaking day highlights the ongoing battle against climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. The historical data from the Milano Brera weather station underscores the urgency for global efforts to curb rising temperatures. As the heatwave wanes and temperatures take a dip, we’re reminded of the delicate balance within our environment and the need to prioritize sustainable practices for the future.
By: M Z Hossain, Editor Sky Buzz Feed
