Italian Cities Roast Under Climate Crisis
Rome and Milan suffered the most extreme temperature spikes in 2022 as Italy’s urban hubs recorded their hottest weather in over 50 years, according to new data from statistics agency Istat. The findings add fuel to the global climate change conversation.
By the Numbers
Regional capitals averaged 16.6°C (1.7°C above historic norms), with Rome seeing a 2.7°C jump and Milan 2.5°C. Since 1997, only 2005 and 2010 briefly interrupted the relentless warming trend.
2022 was also Italy’s second-driest year since 1971, with rainfall at just 576mm – slightly more than 2007’s record low. Sicily, where Europe’s all-time high of 48.8°C was logged in 2021, now faces severe water shortages this year.
Bigger Picture
While 2022’s data paints a grim portrait, EU scientists confirm 2023 smashed records globally as the hottest northern hemisphere summer ever measured. From dried-up Roman fountains to struggling Sicilian farms, Italy’s landscape is becoming a climate change frontline.
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Rome, Milan bear brunt as Italy's cities swelter, data shows
cgtn.com