Pakistan, Aug. 21 -- Europe's hottest town, Floridia in Sicily, is experiencing longer and more intense heat that is changing everyday life for residents. The town reached 33.3degC on August 12, which was 4.1degC above the 1961-1990 historical average. Residents say the growing heat now affects social activities, children, work and local livelihoods.

Floridia became internationally known after recording 48.8degC in August 2021, the highest temperature officially recorded in continental Europe. The World Meteorological Organisation certified the reading in 2024, confirming its place in European temperature records. However, residents increasingly view the record as a warning rather than an isolated weather event.

The Sicilian town, home ...