Temperatures set to exceed 40 degrees in Rome.

Italy's health ministry has issued a red alert as Rome braces itself for a new heatwave.

Forecasters predict that temperatures in Rome will reach above 40 degrees Celsius on 25 July, according to Italian news agency ANSA.

A red alert is in place on 24 July in five Italian cities: Bolzano, Brescia, Florence, Perugia and Turin.

On 25 July the red alert affects Bologna, Frosinone, Genoa, Pescara, Rieti, Rome, Trieste and Verona.

The health ministry has recommended avoiding exposure to the sun and outdoor activity in the middle of the day, as well as advising people to drink plenty of water, eat lightly and preserve their medication properly.

Tourists in Rome should be aware that the city's historic fountains are off-limits, no matter how hot it gets, with fines of €450 for those caught entering the waters.