Vitoria-Gasteiz Adds New Climate Shelters to its Heat Plan

Arkabia and the green area around Los Herrán are included as new shade points, and the Center for Environmental Studies joins the operation.

Generic image of the facade of a modern building representing a climate refuge.
IA

Generic image of the facade of a modern building representing a climate refuge.

The Local Government Board of Vitoria-Gasteiz approved yesterday the update to the city's Heat Plan, which incorporates Arkabia and the green area around Los Herrán as new climate shelters.

The plan, which previously listed 29 municipal buildings and those of other entities, reinforces its objective of protecting citizens' health through a rapid, effective, and coordinated response to high-temperature episodes, such as those experienced last week with highs of 30 degrees.
Mayor Maider Etxebarria detailed that the updated document includes improvements and new preventive actions to offer a faster, more effective, and coordinated response from various municipal services, as well as to reduce the impact of heatwaves on people's health.
The update also strengthens preventive actions during the pre-alert phase, including the review of public water fountains and checking the air conditioning systems on city buses. The Heat Plan was created in 2024 and is part of the Municipal Emergency Plan.
The plan will be in effect from June 1 to September 30, although it can be activated outside this period if necessary. It also includes specific recommendations for citizens, municipal staff, associations, and entities.