Spain’s outdoor terraces might close during heatwaves under new rules

Relaxing on a restaurant or bar terrace is a classic summer pastime in Spain, but new rules may see changes this year.

As the country battles extreme heatwaves, hospitality unions have pushed for increased protections for workers.

This means establishments might have to pause outdoor service when temperatures peak.

Here’s what to know if you are travelling to Spain this summer.

Spanish terraces may close amid extreme heat

As extreme temperatures, floods and other weather events increasingly impinge on daily life, a recent update to the national labour framework for Spain’s hospitality workers has made climate a central issue.

A key amendment introduces health and safety protections for workers amid heatwaves, flooding and heavy snow.

The new regulation applies when the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) issues orange or red alerts.

In the case of extreme heat, restaurants, bars and cafes are required to reduce outdoor service or close their terraces if they do not have adequate shade or cooling systems.

The agreement underlines that closure is a last resort measure, encouraging businesses to begin with adaptations to shifts and schedules and increased hydration and rest breaks.

Establishments that do not abide by the new rules face penalties of more than €50,000 in the most serious cases.

Holidaymakers in Spain need to adapt to rising temperatures

For tourists in Spain this summer, the new regulations may mean having to adapt holiday habits.

When the mercury is pushing 40C, a cold drink on a shaded terrace may seem ideal, but the conditions are punishing for waiters on their feet for long periods carrying trays and cleaning tables.

Amid weather alerts, holidaymakers may find that terrace service is suspended during the hottest hours of the day, while indoor spaces remain open.

If you want to eat al fresco, consider saving your special meal until the evening when terraces are likely to have reopened.

Modifying your daily routine will likely also be beneficial for your own comfort. Last summer, temperatures soared to 45C in some parts of the country, conditions which can be severely debilitating.

The Spanish government is constructing a national network of climate shelters, which will offer people refuge from the increasingly intense heatwaves.

“Devastating droughts and heatwaves are no longer rare,” Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said during a press conference in December.

“Some summers, it’s not separate waves we face, but one long heatwave stretching from June through August. This is now the new normal.”