Italy recorded its hottest summer since 1950 this year, with the average temperature reaching 24.3 degrees Celsius, the country's National Research Council (CNR) said on Monday.
August was particularly hot, with an average temperature of 25.6 degrees, according to data from the CNR's Institute for Bioeconomy. The figures are based on readings taken two metres above ground.
"The average temperature of 25.6 degrees measured in August 2026 exceeds the previous records of 24.6 degrees in 2024 and 24 degrees in August 2017," the CNR's Lorenzo Arcidiaco said.
Arcidiaco said the data also indicated that 2026 could become Italy's hottest year overall since records began in 1950.
Italy experienced several heatwaves over the summer, with temperatures soaring in major cities. The Health Ministry repeatedly issued its highest-level red heat alerts, warning of health risks even for healthy people exposed to the extreme conditions.
High temperatures combined with relatively high humidity made conditions particularly uncomfortable outdoors.
The CNR is Italy's largest public research institution.