Blazing Heat Sparks Dozens of Wildfires Across Sicily
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Sicily is engulfed in soaring temperatures and widespread fires, prompting emergency alerts from the Civil Protection and intense mobilization of firefighting teams across the region.
Temperatures climbed well above 40 °C (104 °F) on Monday and Tuesday, with readings of 41 °C in Partinico, 41.8 °C in Francofonte, and 41.4 °C in Agira by midday on July 21. By the following day, maximums hit 40.5 °C in Modica, 40.1 °C in Lentini, and 40.2 °C in Giuliana.
The escalation in heat has fueled a surge in wildfires. On July 22, at least nine blazes erupted in the province of Catania, with additional fires reported across Agrigento, Caltanissetta, Messina, Enna, Ragusa, and Siracusa. The fires in the Partinico area of Palermo spread along State Road 113 into Montelepre, Giardinello, Pezzingoli, and urban zones such as Via Accursio Miraglia in Monreale.
Local firefighters, forestry corps, and Civil Protection teams have been tirelessly battling the flames late into the night.
Acknowledging the severity of the situation, Sicily’s Civil Protection issued a red alert for fire risk and heat waves on July 21 for all provinces except Agrigento and Trapani, which were placed on high pre-alert status. The warning indicated perceived temperatures reaching up to 36 °C in Palermo.
Authorities cautioned the public against speculation about unverified temperature records, particularly claims of temperatures exceeding 45 °C from uncalibrated stations.
Emergency coordinators have urged citizens to limit outdoor activity, particularly during peak afternoon heat, and to remain alert to fire dangers. Firefighting efforts continue as resources are stretched thin fighting multiple fronts.
