Uptick in heatstroke cases as visitors to Rome brave extreme heat | AFP

Visitors in Rome, struck by the heatwave, arm themselves with hats and umbrellas to brave the hot temperatures. Italian hospitals have seen an uptick in heatstroke cases in elderly and vulnerable patients – particularly among those living in cities. Scientists say the "urban heat island" effect means the air in densely‑populated and built‑up areas experiences is far more humid than in rural areas.