Andorra la Vella Launches Five Climate Shelters to Combat Heatwaves

Andorra la Vella has activated five climate shelters in public facilities as a pilot programme running through summer until 30 September and extending into winter, providing air-conditioned spaces, water points, seating, restrooms, and QR codes to around 45 public fountains across the parish.

First Consul Sergi González unveiled the initiative at the New Administrative Building on Prat de la Creu—also known as Plaça Lídia Armengol—with additional sites at the Enclau cultural centre in Santa Coloma, La Llacuna centre, Els Serradells sports centre, and Comunal Stadium. The shelters operate mainly during peak heat hours from 11am to 5pm, when demand is highest based on recent data, though the New Administrative Building and La Llacuna remain open until 8pm. On weekends, Els Serradells and Comunal Stadium stay available, with occasional access at the Enclau.

González defined climate shelters as indoor public spaces offering comfortable conditions during extreme weather, beyond just green areas, to address increasingly frequent heatwaves and cold spells linked to climate change. He noted that while Andorra's situation is not yet severe, the council aims to anticipate daily needs, drawing parallels to Buenos Aires's network of 250 midday shelters—a link forged during Andorra la Vella's vice-presidency of the Iberian sub-region at an Ibero-American capitals meeting with Barcelona, Cadiz, Lisbon, and Madrid.

Funded at €35,000, the pilot prioritises health and wellbeing for vulnerable residents including the elderly, children, and those with medical conditions. If successful, it could expand to areas like Riberaygua and Ciutat de Valls, incorporating low-impact measures such as improved shade, signage, and awareness campaigns.

The effort aligns with the recently launched Programa d’Impuls Verd (PIV), which promotes vegetation, shade, and urban resilience. Initial PIV projects include greening at Prada de Motxilla and Baixada del Molí, with further plans for Plaça Bartomeu Rebé, Comella play area, Prat Condal in Santa Coloma, the torrent de la Comella walkway, Santa Coloma river path, and Avinguda Meritxell commercial axis—potentially adding modular shelters and benches.