From cool-down spots to chalk on windows – how Europeans are beating the heat

By Sarah Rainsford, in Rome

Even for sun-loving Italy, current temperatures are extreme for June.

The list of cities issued with a red alert warning is long and set to grow on Wednesday, with the most sweltering spots in the centre and north of the country.

As the temperature climbed this week, the government reintroduced measures to help workers most exposed to the heat: either those baking outside, like farmers and construction workers, or those indoors with poor ventilation.

It means certain businesses can suspend or reduce their activity when the temperature is exceptionally high, then access state funds for furlough payments to workers.

For the rest, it’s air con time. Anyone who has it installed at home or work now has it on full blast and the shutters closed.

Those without, especially the elderly and most vulnerable, have been advised to head for air-conditioned public spaces instead.

In Palermo, tourists who still insist on a horse-drawn-carriage ride will now have to wait until evening, or a cooler day.

In Turin, some restaurants have closed their terraces – elsewhere, including in Rome, giant outdoor fans and sprinklers are working overtime.

For those who do head out to eat, the health ministry has issued some advice: to choose pasta over meat, and switch dehydrating coffee or cold beer for a glass of water.