**Calls Mount for Welsh Government to Create ‘Cool Hubs’ Amid Soaring Temperatures**
As Wales braces for a weekend of exceptional heat, there is growing pressure on the Welsh Government to introduce so-called ‘cool hubs’ in public spaces, to help residents—particularly the most vulnerable—cope with the soaring temperatures. The Met Office has forecast that thermometers could reach an astonishing 33°C in some areas of Wales, prompting anxiety over public health and the risk of wildfires.
Jane Dodds MS, leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, has been particularly vocal, urging ministers in Cardiff Bay to establish air-conditioned refuges such as gyms, leisure centres, and libraries. Her call for action comes as forecasters predict not only sizzling temperatures but also that this stretch of hot weather could be one of the lengthiest and far-reaching episodes this summer, with conditions expected to linger into next week.
Highlighting the increased risks, Dodds referenced official data which indicated that 2,295 deaths in the UK last summer were linked to heatwaves. She pointed out that the current year has already been noted as the warmest and sunniest spring on record. Such statistics, she argues, make it clear that more needs to be done to shield the elderly, those living in inadequate accommodation, and people with existing health conditions.
Recent years have seen Wales hit by numerous forest and grassland fires, particularly in Mid Wales and the valleys. The ongoing threat underscores the twin challenges of public health and environmental safety facing the country. Dodds reasoned that public buildings, already established for community benefit, could be temporarily adapted to fulfil this urgent need. This concept is not novel; similar initiatives have been rolled out in countries around the world, providing respite centres—sometimes dubbed ‘cool banks’—during spells of excessive heat.
“The imminent hot weather could be particularly hazardous for those most at risk,” Dodds explained. “We have witnessed wildfires in previous years, which not only threaten wildlife and natural beauty but also place additional strain on emergency services. It is simply prudent to make public spaces available for relief and comfort when temperatures climb.”
In addition to her plea for cool hubs, Dodds called for increased public education regarding wildfire prevention. People should be discouraged from lighting fires outdoors or carelessly discarding items like cigarettes and glass, which could spark new blazes in parched conditions. She added that the Welsh Government must “properly resource the fire service” to ensure they are equipped to respond to climate-driven emergencies.
Meanwhile, Met Office chief meteorologist Jason Kelly confirmed the scale of the high-pressure system affecting Wales and much of the UK. “We’re expecting temperatures to rise steadily in the coming days, pushing the mercury above 30°C and possibly peaking at 33°C in both England and Wales by the weekend,” said Kelly. The meteorologist advised that this particular heatwave may not break previous temperature records but is likely to persist longer and affect a larger swathe of the country, with Scotland also forecast to reach heatwave criteria.
The sustained intensity of the weather is also set to bring heightened pollen and UV levels, which could create further discomfort for many residents. Households are being reminded to monitor official weather updates, take steps to stay cool and hydrated, and look out for neighbours who may be especially vulnerable.
The debate over the swift establishment of ‘cool hubs’ brings to the fore a broader issue: how public policy must adapt in light of increasingly severe and frequent weather extremes. With experts warning that heatwaves and their consequences are likely here to stay, the conversation about Wales’ readiness for climate change is likely to continue long after the present weather event has passed.
The question now is whether the Welsh Government will heed these calls for action, by embracing innovative, community-focused solutions to help keep people safe from the escalating dangers of extreme heat. As temperatures continue to climb and climate concerns grow, the response from policymakers is sure to come under close scrutiny.