How climate shelters work in Spain

Spain, one of the European countries most affected by the climate crisis and the surge in high temperatures, is preparing to address the phenomenon systematically. The most effective solution is climate shelters, public spaces designed to protect the population during extreme heat waves. The idea is simple: provide cool, accessible, and free places where anyone can take shelter when temperatures become dangerous.

In 2025, Spain recorded its hottest summer ever recorded nationwide, with temperatures exceeding 45°C during several heatwaves. A network of climate shelters was established across the country, following a format adopted by other European nations. The Spanish city where climate shelters have developed the most is Barcelona. Since 2020, it has created a widespread network of climate shelters, expanding from approximately 70 spaces to over 400-450 locations throughout the city. The urban planning goal is for nearly all residents to be able to reach one on foot within a few minutes. In Italy, the most advanced city in terms of climate shelters is Bologna, with 20 equipped locations throughout the city.