Italian city, capital of Sicily’s autonomous region
The prime minister has chaired an emergency Cobra meeting as the UK faces a fifth heatwave, widespread drought and rising wildfires. He has asked retailers to follow voluntary guidance and suspend sales of disposable barbecues; some supermarkets have already stopped sales. Ministers are considering a temporary summer ban and steps to support firefighters, farmers and water supplies.
Volcanic ash from Mount Etna has disrupted Catania and surrounding airports in Sicily. Flights are suspended or cancelled, with impacts on passengers and nearby airports like Palermo and Comiso. Malta reports disruptions; authorities warn travelers to check with airlines. The situation remains dynamic as ash emissions continue.
Europe endures a blistering heat wave with temperatures above 40C in several countries. Italy places all 27 major cities on red heat alerts; authorities extend evening hours at Rome’s Colosseum and Pantheon and open cooling measures. Wildfires, drought and energy stress accompany the heat, prompting precautions for residents and visitors.
A wave of polo shirts is shaping fashion and public life. From football managers and politicians to celebrities, the polo is crossing borders and industries. Sales and social buzz point to a sustained revival driven by preppy styling and casual formality.
The Milan prosecutor’s office has summoned Alessandro Bastoni, a 27-year-old Italy defender, in connection with an inquiry into an alleged escort ring. Investigators allege he paid for sex with a 17-year-old in June 2020. Wiretaps quote a PR representative and Bastoni’s responses; his camp says he did not engage in sexual relations with minors. Other players are under scrutiny in the wider probe.
Extensive wildfires are burning across France, Spain and Italy as heatwaves drive arid conditions. Evacuations continue, hundreds of firefighters operate across multiple fronts, and authorities warn that heat and dry vegetation will keep fire risk high in coming days.
Monsoon floods have struck Nuristan, Afghanistan, damaging Parun and surrounding areas. Authorities report dozens dead, hundreds missing or injured, as forecasters warn of more heavy rainfall. Rescue teams are struggling amid rugged terrain and limited infrastructure; international aid agencies are mobilising.
A series of large-scale seizures across the UK have disrupted counterfeit football shirts tied to the World Cup. Authorities warn the suppliers and criminal networks behind fake gear are linked to safety risks and broader crime. Fans face higher prices for official kit as prices rise across clubs; experts urge buying official gear to protect safety.
The Morandi Bridge collapse verdict has been handed down in Genoa. Castellucci has been sentenced to 12 years for vehicular homicide and negligence, with 32 others convicted in what prosecutors call a landmark case for Italy’s aging infrastructure.
Protests greet Tilman Fertitta’s Venice stop as part of a coastal diplomacy tour marking the US 250th anniversary. Demonstrators accuse the ambassador’s voyage of flaunting wealth amid tensions over Trump administration’s international stance. Venice’s authorities maintain the event showcases partnership and shared history.
European heatwaves have intensified with Spain facing temperatures near record highs, intensifying wildfires across the country. France, Italy and Portugal are also affected, with droughts and heat-related concerns rising. Authorities warn of extreme fire risk and heat-related health threats.
Since late July 2026, fast-moving wildfires have forced more than 200,000 people to flee across southwestern France and central Spain. Fires have scorched tens of thousands of hectares, pushed toward Bordeaux and areas west of Madrid, injured firefighters, prompted France to deploy soldiers and led Spain to declare a national emergency.
The Memphis WTA 250 sees top seed Alexandrova withdraw from a three-hour match against 16-year-old Kristina Liutova in extreme heat, handing Liutova her debut- win while Venus Williams falters elsewhere; other first-round results unfold.
Divers have discovered a Roman-era shipwreck off Mazara del Vallo, Sicily, carrying hundreds of well-preserved amphorae. The wreck is dated to the 2nd century BC, and authorities plan documentation and protection as researchers study its cargo and origins.
A global heat wave trend persists into August 2026. July saw record or near-record sea surface and air temperatures across Europe and globally. Scientists warn that accelerating warming and a strong El Niño are increasing the odds that 2026 will be the hottest year on record.