The City of Buenos Aires (CABA) has activated a special operation of climate shelters during these days of heatwave.
The measure responds to the orange alert issued by the National Meteorological Service (SMN) for a large part of the national territory, including the City.
In response to this situation, the city government tripled the climate shelters, increasing from 82 to 250.
The objective of these is to offer protection and relief to residents and visitors against the extreme temperatures and they are strategically distributed throughout the territory.
These spaces function as comfortable and cool places where the population can protect themselves, rest and continue with their daily activities during the heatwave.
“Extreme weather events are occurring more frequently and the City is prepared to respond in an organized and concrete manner like never before,” said the Mayor, Jorge Macri, at a press conference.
Two types of climate shelters for different needs
The climate shelters in CABA are divided into two categories according to their structure.
First, there are the indoor spaces, which include public buildings, libraries, museums, communal headquarters, and health centers with air conditioning.
Among these, the Usina del Arte, the Museo de Arte Popular José Hernández, the San Martín Cultural Center, and the Larreta and Modern Art museums stand out.
On the other hand, the outdoor climate shelters offer abundant shade and urban vegetation. The Carlos Thays Botanical Garden, the Ecopark, the Sarmiento, Del Golf, and Olympic parks, and the Ecological Reserve, for example, are part of this network.
Each resident can check the nearest shelter through Boti, the City’s WhatsApp (11-5050-0147), or on the official map available online.
Emergency teams reinforcement is added
In addition to the climate shelters, the prevention operation includes strengthening all emergency teams.
In line with this, SAME reinforced its services, including air and night services, along with the Fire Department and Civil Defense.
“The entire system is ready to respond professionally whenever needed. With all our teams, we are here to take care of the most valuable thing we have: the life and health of all the residents,” added Macri.
The City activated preventive guards for power outages in critical points using its own generators.
This allows for quick assistance in situations such as stuck elevators or electro-dependent people.
Alberto Crescenti, head of SAME, stated: “A heat stroke is a pure emergency and therefore an emergency policy must be developed, this is a State policy.”
Recommendations for high temperatures
The authorities have expanded the services of the 17 Healthy Stations in parks and squares. There, residents can hydrate and access basic check-ups with specialized teams.
The alert is especially focused on at-risk groups: children and those over 65 years old. High temperatures can be dangerous for these vulnerable populations.
Official recommendations include:
- Hydrate frequently, even before feeling thirsty
- Avoid sun exposure between 10 AM and 5 PM
- Wear light and light-colored clothing
- Prioritize fresh foods like fruits and vegetables
- Stay in cool or shaded spaces
- Engage in physical activity early or later in the day
The climate shelters provide basic assistance such as hydration and air-conditioned rest.
However, if symptoms like dizziness, headache, dehydration, or nausea occur, it is recommended to go to the nearest health center or call SAME (107).
