Europe is bracing for a scorching heatwave that's set to engulf central and eastern regions, a stark reminder of the continent's inadequate preparations for rising temperatures. Despite decades of climate warnings, European countries seem woefully unprepared to tackle the growing threat of extreme heat, with devastating consequences already unfolding. In Italy, the Po River, a vital waterway that sustains the country's rich agricultural heritage, is experiencing unprecedented low levels, with seawater creeping into its banks. The situation is particularly dire in the farming heartland of northern Italy, where the heat is threatening to decimate the production of Parmesan cheese, a beloved Italian delicacy. As the region teeters on the brink of a potentially catastrophic drought, experts are left wondering how Europe can prevent such disasters from becoming more frequent and severe.
Forecasters say hottest conditions spreading into central and eastern EuropeAfter decades of climate warnings, why is Europe so unprepared for rising heat?Seawater is seeping into Italy’s longest river as the waterway starts to run dry in the heatwave, hitting a farming heartland that produces the milk for Parmesan cheese.The Po River has never fallen this low so early in the year, raising fears of a devastating drought in July in this corner of northern Italy. Continue reading...
