Discover Catalonia's climate shelters!

Heat waves are becoming more frequent in Catalonia, one of the most visible effects of climate change in our region. To address this challenge, the Generalitat (Catalan Government), through the Department of the Interior and Civil Protection, has launched an interactive viewer that includes more than a thousand climate shelters spread throughout the region.

What is a climate shelter?

A climate shelter is a public space designated for public access during extreme heat events. These can be outdoor spaces, such as parks with shade trees, or indoor spaces, such as libraries, community centers, and swimming pools. Interiors should maintain a temperature of approximately 27°C during the summer (and 19°C in winter if these spaces are used at other times).

In addition, a series of requirements have been established to ensure the well-being of those who use them: accessibility, seating (benches or chairs), free water, and a safe environment. Spaces such as libraries, sports centers, and community centers maintain their normal use, integrating them into shelter functions without becoming healthcare facilities.

Check the map!

How important are these spaces?

Heat waves have a direct impact on public health, especially among vulnerable populations: children, the elderly, the chronically ill, and low-income groups. Furthermore, meteorological data indicate that average annual temperatures continue to rise (for example, in Barcelona, an increase of +0.09°C per decade since 1780 and +0.33°C per decade since 2000).

Having these shelters directly contributes to reducing heat-related mortality and preventing health problems caused by heat stress. It also facilitates access to safe spaces for spending the hottest hours of the day.

What is expected from the future?

The Generalitat (Catalan Government) plans to increase shelter coverage, with the goal of making them accessible to everyone. The app is coordinating with local governments to ensure each municipality can add new spaces and keep the system's information up to date.