ROME: Italian health officials intensified heat warnings as southern Europe began a brutally hot week on Monday with temperatures expected to top 40 degrees Celsius — or 104 degrees Fahrenheit — on a continent already overburdened by tourists.

Italy's Health Ministry issued 10 recommendations to protect elderly people, the sick and pets from the heat, urging people to stay indoors during the hottest hours, drink at least 1.5 liters (nearly half a gallon) of water a day and refrain from strenuous exercise at peak daylight times.