The Madrid City Council has confirmed that this summer it will designate 43 municipal markets with air-conditioned common areas as shelters during heat waves. These are not new spaces, but rather existing markets—many of which already have air conditioning in their aisles and common areas—that will be specifically marked so that any resident knows they can enter, sit for a while, and cool down without having to make a purchase.
These shelters are part of the city’s heat-mitigation strategy, which also includes other measures such as misting systems in plazas and streets, more shaded areas in highly exposed spaces (Sun, major avenues), and specific protocols for the elderly, children, and vulnerable groups. The philosophy is clear: in a city where thermometers are hitting 40 degrees earlier and earlier, we need to increase the number of places where people can “reset” without breaking the bank.
Where will they be located and how will they work?
The 43 air-conditioned markets are distributed across different neighborhoods in Madrid, covering both central districts and outlying areas, so that no resident has to travel too far to find a refuge. The complete list of participating markets will be available on the municipal website and the City Council’s official channels, where schedules and potential expansions of the network will also be updated as the summer progresses.
The operation will be simple: during their regular opening hours, these markets will offer their walkways and rest areas as safe, cool spaces. There will be signage identifying the markets as climate shelters and reminding people of basic heat safety recommendations (stay hydrated, avoid sun exposure during peak hours, look out for the elderly and children, etc.).
Another piece of the “shield” against heat waves
The Madrid City Council has updated its strategy to combat high temperatures. The municipal plan covers care for vulnerable populations, the adaptation of public spaces, and workplace protection for outdoor workers through the CALORMAD program.
The Heat Campaign will begin on June 1 if Public Health declares a Level 2 high-risk alert. The initiative will operate at the SAMUR Social headquarters between 12:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. This resource will provide hydration, food, and hygiene supplies to homeless individuals. For the elderly, social services have increased home visits. In July and August, most districts will open two or more senior centers daily, a number that exceeds that of the previous season.