With thermometers already exceeding 30 degrees Celsius and the first heatwaves imminent, the Madrid City Council has launched its strategy to mitigate high temperatures. This initiative follows the recent inauguration of the remodeled Plaza del Rastrillo in the Centro district, which now features water misting systems, a new fountain, increased greenery, and shade structures to reduce the urban 'heat island' effect.
The project at Plaza del Rastrillo joins other measures already in effect since last week. On May 22nd, the 'urban beach' at Madrid Río in Arganzuela opened with its characteristic water jets. Misters in Plaza de España and the pergola at La Gavia in Villa de Vallecas were also activated. New water misting systems will be added to various streets and squares starting in June.
The Municipal Governing Board has presented the coordinated actions across different areas and districts. These include the provision of air-conditioned spaces, enhanced social support, protection measures for outdoor municipal workers, and new urban interventions.
One of the main novelties is the expansion of the climate refuge network. A total of 43 municipal markets will offer air conditioning in their common areas throughout the summer. Information on these spaces will be available on madrid.es and other municipal platforms. Additionally, senior centers and municipal facilities will serve as emergency air-conditioned zones.
The City Council is also maintaining other urban interventions to reduce thermal impact, such as installing awnings in Puerta del Sol and planting over 12,000 trees during the current term. Permeable pavements and new green areas are also being incorporated into various city projects.
In the social sphere, the Heat Campaign for homeless individuals will commence on June 1st, offering shelter, hydration, and meals at the Samur Social center. Street Team outreach and monitoring of elderly individuals will also be intensified.
Nursery schools and municipal summer camps will implement specific protocols for heatwaves, including suspending physical activities or conducting water-based activities. Monitors are trained in first aid.
The Culture, Tourism, and Sports department will implement measures for citizens to find relief from the heat. The ‘Veranos de la Villa’ program will feature concerts and cinema in air-conditioned venues or open spaces at dusk. Cultural spaces will be adapted for reading in cool, green environments, and cinemas will offer afternoon discounts.
The ‘Refúgiate en la cultura’ initiative will allow enjoyment of flamenco performances during central hours at several city museums, including the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum.
Municipal workers exposed to the sun will have adjusted work plans based on official meteorological information, including hydration recommendations and modifications to work locations and hours. Mobile waste collection point employees will alter their schedules during heat alerts.
The municipal strategy is coordinated through the updated Calormad plan, integrated into the Municipal Emergency Territorial Plan. Madrid Salud will issue alerts and recommendations via official channels such as Emergencias Madrid.
