Tolosa has become one of the epicenters of a severe heatwave in the interior of Gipuzkoa, with thermometers exceeding 37 degrees Celsius under an AEMET red alert. This situation confirms the 0.9-degree temperature increase over the last decade in the Tolosaldea and Goierri regions, as warned by Xabier Esteban, director of Naturklima.
The town endured temperatures of 33 degrees in the early hours, leading residents to seek shade, terraces, and the river Araxes for relief. In response to the heat, the Town Council has modified the schedule for the patron saint festivities. Inflatables have been moved indoors to the Beotibar fronton, and the traditional herri kirolak (Basque rural sports) event has been postponed to 7:00 PM in the Triángulo area.
The relocation of children's attractions to the sports venue has been welcomed by families. Itsaso Roteta, a mother with a seven-month-old baby, described the challenges of the heat, including breastfeeding difficulties and the need to constantly seek shaded areas outdoors. The Old Town, particularly the Tinglado and Solana street, has become a refuge due to its ample shade and natural breeze.
Juanan Zabala, who works at a day center, expressed concern about his duties in the coming days. He highlighted the specific measures for combating heat in elder care: hydration, attention, and constant vigilance. However, he acknowledged that high temperatures affect and discomfort the elderly, requiring increased patience.
In the López Mendizabal square, Pili Vallés and Iñaki Mercader were enjoying a wine on a terrace while bertsolaris performed. Residents from the Triángulo area, where the TAK-Oria's Zerkausia rowing boat was officially presented, stated that expert advice had little impact on their daily lives, as they only use fans at home about three times a year. Nevertheless, they admitted that the heat is becoming a continuous presence in the municipality.
Temperatures are expected to rise further this afternoon, reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius in inland Gipuzkoa before gradually decreasing overnight. AEMET has extended its red alert forecast for 48 hours, urging residents to exercise extreme caution.
