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By Sarah Rainsford, in Rome<\/b><\/p>\n
Even for sun-loving Italy, current temperatures are extreme for June.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
Those without, especially the elderly and most vulnerable, have been advised to head for air-conditioned public spaces instead. <\/p>\n
In Palermo, tourists who still insist on a horse-drawn-carriage ride will now have to wait until evening, or a cooler day. <\/p>\n
In Turin, some restaurants have closed their terraces – elsewhere, including in Rome, giant outdoor fans and sprinklers are working overtime. <\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n