An interactive ‘Cool Spaces’ map has been released to help London residents find indoor and shaded environments during a severe heatwave.
Access to these locations is critical for protecting public health as extreme temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses for vulnerable populations. The tool provides a directory of venues that offer a reprieve from the outdoor heat.
The initiative comes as London experienced an unprecedented heatwave in May 2024 [1]. During this period, temperatures in the city rose to approximately 35 °C [1]. This spike in temperature prompted city officials and media outlets to highlight specific venues that remain cooler than the surrounding streets.
The map identifies various types of locations, including museums, libraries, and underground stations [2]. These sites are often better equipped with climate control or natural insulation that keeps indoor temperatures lower than the external environment.
Residents are encouraged to use the tool to locate the nearest shaded or air-conditioned spot to avoid overexposure to the sun. The effort aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of whether they have air conditioning at home, has a place to seek relief.
Local authorities and media partners worked to compile these locations to ensure the information was accessible to the general public. By centralizing this data into a single interactive map, the city provides a real-time resource for those navigating the urban heat island effect — a phenomenon where metropolitan areas remain warmer than nearby rural regions.
“Temperatures in the city rose to approximately 35 °C.”
The creation of a 'Cool Spaces' map reflects a growing need for urban adaptation as extreme weather events become more frequent. By utilizing public infrastructure like libraries and museums as emergency cooling centers, London is implementing a low-cost public health strategy to mitigate the risks of heatstroke and dehydration in a city not traditionally designed for extreme heat.
