ITALY HAS PLACED every one of its major cities under its highest heat alert for Thursday, as a prolonged heatwave pushes temperatures towards 40C and authorities warn of risks for locals and tourists. The ministry’s daily heat bulletin shows major destinations including Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, Naples, Bologna, Palermo, Cagliari and Bari will all be under the maximum warning level on Thursday. Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock PhotoThe latest warning comes as Italy battles its fourth major heatwave of the summer. Italian media have linked several recent deaths to the heatwave, including outdoor workers in northern Italy who are believed to have suffered heat-related illnesses. Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock PhotoScientists say climate change is making European heatwaves more frequent, longer-lasting and more intense.