Spain to establish nationwide network of climate shelters
The Spanish government has announced plans to open a network of climate shelters across the country, aiming to protect citizens from extreme weather events linked to climate change. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said the shelters will be located in public buildings, making them accessible to communities during heatwaves, storms, and other climate-related emergencies.
The initiative is part of Spain’s broader strategy to enhance climate resilience and safeguard public health, particularly as rising temperatures and increasingly severe weather events threaten vulnerable populations. The shelters will provide air-conditioned spaces, drinking water, and emergency supplies, and local authorities will coordinate access and preparedness efforts.
Sánchez emphasised that the shelters will not only serve as emergency refuges but also raise awareness about climate change and the importance of adaptation measures. Officials said the program is designed to complement existing disaster management systems, including early warning networks and community response plans.
Experts welcomed the move, noting that urban areas, where high temperatures and population density intersect, are particularly at risk from climate-related hazards. The shelters aim to mitigate the immediate health risks posed by heatwaves, floods, and storms, which have increased in frequency in recent years due to global warming.
The government plans to roll out the shelters in phases, prioritising regions most affected by extreme weather, and will engage local municipalities in maintaining and operating the facilities. Citizens will be encouraged to familiarise themselves with the locations and services offered, ensuring rapid access in times of need.