text:  The health ministry in Italy has issued severe heat warnings for about a dozen cities nationwide. Hot air from northern Africa is moving into parts of southern Europe, causing a spike in temperatures. Philomarx reports forecasters say the excessive heat will extend into this week. The health ministry placed cities from Rome to Trieste under the highest available red alert, urging all residents to avoid strenuous activities outdoors and to remain indoors during the day's hottest periods.