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Europe Opens Free Cooling Sites; Spain Mandates Worker Heat Protection

6/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Cities open free cooling sites as a heatwave pushes temperatures toward 40 °C across Europe.
Amsterdam pilots 12 cool-down spots in the Nieuw-West district, offering seating, drinking water and toilets, many of which allow pets.
Logroño makes pool entry free, turns on night-time fountains and installs water sprinklers to help residents cool down.
Spain’s 2024 law requires employers to protect outdoor workers during extreme heat, allowing activity suspension and state-funded furlough.

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Story summary

Cities open free cooling sites as a heatwave pushes temperatures toward 40 °C across Europe.
Amsterdam pilots 12 cool-down spots in the Nieuw-West district, offering seating, drinking water and toilets, many of which allow pets.
Logroño makes pool entry free, turns on night-time fountains and installs water sprinklers to help residents cool down.
Spain’s 2024 law requires employers to protect outdoor workers during extreme heat, allowing activity suspension and state-funded furlough.