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Madrid grapples with rising heat
PUBLISHED: 2025-07-14 09:19:27Madrid woke up this morning under a blazing sun as the city continues to experience a relentless heatwave pushing temperatures well above seasonal norms. Forecasters from the National Meteorological Office, AEMET, confirm that the mercury has climbed steadily over the past week, reaching highs of 38 degrees Celsius yesterday and expected to touch 40 degrees by midweek.
Residents are bracing for what experts warn could be one of the hottest Julys on record for the capital, with sustained temperatures over 35 degrees persisting well into the evening. This spells discomfort for many and serious challenges for vulnerable groups including the elderly, children, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
The Community of Madrid issued an early warning last week through its emergency services and health departments, advising citizens to take precautions against the heat, stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, and look out for signs of heat exhaustion. Cooling centres have been activated in public libraries, community centres and some metro stations, offering refuge for those without access to air conditioning.
Madrid’s local hospitals have already reported a noticeable increase in cases of heat-related illness. According to the Health Ministry, emergency admissions linked to heatstroke, dehydration and exacerbation of chronic diseases rose by nearly 15% compared to the same period last year. Doctors stress the importance of recognising symptoms early and recommend checking on neighbours who may be isolated.
City services have mobilised additional street cleaning teams and water sprinklers in public parks to reduce the urban heat island effect. Trees along major avenues are receiving extra irrigation and local authorities urge residents to plant more greenery in balconies and terraces. It is a small but growing response to the broader issue of climate change’s impact on urban life.
Experts from the Complutense University’s Environmental Science Department warn that Madrid’s combination of geographical position, urban density and climate trends makes it particularly vulnerable to extreme heat events. Professor Elena Sánchez explained that while heatwaves are becoming more frequent across southern Europe, Madrid’s sprawling layout means temperatures can remain high for longer periods, especially at night, hindering recovery.
The heatwave also threatens Madrid’s tourism sector which thrives in the summer months. Hotels and restaurants are adapting by adjusting opening hours, increasing outdoor shaded areas and offering cooling drinks and menus designed for lighter, refreshing meals. Tour guides warn visitors to schedule sightseeing early in the day and stay indoors during peak heat.
Transport operators report increased demand for water and rest areas at major hubs such as Atocha and Chamartín stations. The metro company has enhanced ventilation on several lines, but travellers still complain about overheated trains during rush hours, especially on older carriages.
Agriculture around Madrid is feeling the heat too. Local farmers report drying soil and stressed crops, particularly vineyards and vegetable fields in the nearby Vega del Jarama. Some irrigation restrictions have been imposed by the regional water authority to conserve resources during this unusually hot spell.
The power grid is under strain. The regional electricity operator has issued calls for energy savings during peak afternoon hours to avoid blackouts. Air conditioning use is soaring, pushing demand to record levels. Experts remind consumers to reduce consumption where possible, for instance by using fans and closing blinds to minimise indoor heat.
Meanwhile, Madrid’s famed festivals and cultural events face disruptions. The annual San Cayetano festival, held in the historic Lavapiés neighbourhood, will probably have to alter schedules to avoid afternoon heat.
Parents have been advised to provide sun protection and water bottles, while health officials remind that children’s bodies are more vulnerable to dehydration.
Environmental campaigners warn that this heatwave is a sign of what is to come unless more decisive action is taken against climate change. They call for accelerated efforts to reduce emissions, promote sustainable urban planning and improve public awareness about the risks of extreme heat.
For many Madrileños, the relentless sun is a reminder of past summers but also a warning about the future. Stories circulate about grandparents recalling cooler decades, while young residents feel increasingly uncomfortable navigating the city’s hot streets.
Despite the discomfort, life goes on. Cafés fill with patrons seeking refuge in air-conditioned interiors. Public fountains see families gathering to splash and cool off. Parks like Retiro become early morning havens before the heat sets in.
This heatwave, while challenging, may serve as a catalyst for Madrid to rethink its urban environment, infrastructure and social policies in the face of a warming world. The coming days will test the city’s resilience, its institutions and its community spirit.
For now, Madrid endures the sun’s intensity with a mixture of stoicism, adaptation and caution, reminding all that the climate is not just a distant issue but a daily reality shaping the rhythm of life.
Workers beat the odds and reopen vital road
PUBLISHED: 2025-07-14 10:00:34After four months of intensive emergency work, the A-397 road connecting Ronda and San Pedro de Alcántara reopened to traffic at midnight on Monday, July 14.
The reopening, which is regulated by traffic lights to allow alternating one-way traffic, brings significant relief to thousands of drivers who rely on the vital link between the Serranía de Ronda and the Costa del Sol. Workers proved the sceptics wrong who had speculated that the task would take much longer to complete and even reopened the road ahead of their own expectations.
The reopening follows complex repairs on highly dangerous and unstable terrain. The project’s budget rose from €3.7 million to €4.5 million due to additional geotechnical risks, which required advanced techniques such as controlled micro-blasting.
Since the road’s closure on March 8, caused by a massive rockfall during heavy storms in Benahavís, drivers had faced long, costly detours via routes like Gaucín-Manilva or toll motorways. The rockfall damaged both the road and a bridge’s deck and needed extensive reconstruction. Works included manufacturing steel girders in local Ronda workshops, installing precast slabs, concreting the deck, stabilising slopes, adding drainage systems, and signage.
The extremely challenging project needed round-the-clock work, and night shifts, with heavy machinery and specialised geotechnical expertise to monitor safety. Although the reopening is partial, ongoing efforts will include reinforcing walls and building new containment structures to prevent future landslides.
Regional Infrastructure Minister Rocío Díaz fulfilled her commitment to expedite the restoration of this critical artery. For now, traffic lights will manage alternating flow until the full reopening, and further improvements are planned afterwards.
Mojácar Launches Mobile Clean Points
PUBLISHED: 2025-07-14 10:00:44Mojácar Council has introduced a new Mobile Clean Point service, making recycling easier and more accessible for residents and visitors. The initiative, which operates every Friday, aims to encourage sustainable practices by offering convenient drop-off points for items that cannot be disposed of in regular skips.
The service is available at two key locations: Plaza Nueva in Mojácar Pueblo from 9:00am to 10:00am, and at Mojácar Beach next to the Tourist Office kiosk from 10:15am to 11:15am.Through this programme, people can responsibly dispose of small appliances such as toasters and hairdryers, batteries, light bulbs, used cooking oil (in sealed containers), clothing, car batteries, and other difficult-to-recycle items like CDs, DVDs, aerosol cans, and paint containers.
Mayor Francisco García said, “With the launch of the Mobile Clean Point, we are taking another step towards a more sustainable Mojácar. This initiative not only simplifies recycling but also motivates everyone to help protect our environment.” An on-site operator will assist in sorting and collecting the waste, ensuring the process remains quick and straightforward.
The council emphasises the importance of collective responsibility in environmental care. “In Mojácar, sustainability is a priority. This service ensures recycling is easy and accessible for all,” added Mayor García. The Mobile Clean Point will continue every Friday, providing regular access to recycling facilities and contributing towards a cleaner, greener Mojácar.
Spanish beachgoers edged out as tourism hotspots become too expensive
PUBLISHED: 2025-07-14 09:04:54Local residents in Spain increasingly find themselves priced out of their own coastal retreats as foreign tourism surges to unprecedented levels. Figures released today show that in 2024 the 25 most popular Mediterranean and Atlantic beach destinations in Spain saw a staggering drop of 800 000 domestic visitors, even as foreign arrivals increased by nearly two million. That trend is expected to continue in 2025, with Spain on course to receive more than 100 million international tourists this year, confirming its position as the second most visited country in the world after France.
These numbers emerge from previously undisclosed official data analysed by inAtlas and revealed in a Reuters report published this morning in Madrid. The analysis highlights a growing imbalance in the domestic tourism market, where local families, pensioners, students and middle-income citizens are seeing beaches once considered theirs, a family or friendly summer retreat, slip from their reach due to soaring accommodation and rental costs.
The rise and consequences of unchecked tourism
Spain’s tourism boom, fuelled by the lifting of pandemic restrictions and aggressive promotional campaigns, is creating a paradox. While tourism is often heralded as the backbone of the national economy, and it is, as it employs millions and supports countless businesses, the current level of intensity can become increasingly exclusionary. Longstanding holidaymakers report paying three to four times more for holiday rentals compared to pre‑pandemic rates, and hotel prices spike further still during peak months.
Stories like this are slowly becoming more and more commonplace along the Costa Blanca, the Costa del Sol and the Costa Brava, where family-run pensions and inexpensive boarding houses are vanishing in favour of more expensive and polished experiences.
Official response and policy pivot
In response to the situation, Spain’s government has announced plans to shift promotional focus from coastal to inland destinations. Recently launched campaigns now promote rural, cultural and mountain tourism regions across Castilla‑La Mancha, Aragón, Extremadura and Navarra.
Local authorities are also trying to explore tools like property taxation on homes unused for more than six months, as well as stricter control over short‑term holiday rentals. These measures mirror efforts seen in cities like Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, which aim to curb overtourism and preserve affordable housing stock for all year residents, whichever their nationality might be.
Economic upside and local friction
The economic benefits of tourism are undeniable. According to the latest figures from the Spanish National Institute of Statistics (INE), tourism accounted for around 13 per cent of Spain’s GDP in 2024, supporting nearly 2.6 million jobs across hospitality, transport, retail and entertainment.
Yet this success brings challenges. Coastal resorts report higher revenues than ever before, but many warn of growing local resentment. Charges for parking, sunbed rentals, even beach bars have reportedly seen steep hikes. Meanwhile, the service industry struggles to recruit staff as workers face rising living costs in tourist magnets.
Domestic voices find a new escape
With beaches becoming unaffordable, many Spaniards are turning to alternatives. Inland valleys, countryside lodges and eco‑resorts have started to see resurgence. The Spanish multi‑destination agency TuPlanRural reports a 25 per cent increase in domestic bookings for July and August compared to 2023.
Popular inland spots include the Natural Park of Sierra de Gredos, the Ribera del Duero wine region, the Picos de Europa National Park and the historic city of Toledo. These places offer affordable stays, cooler summer temperatures and cultural richness often overlooked by mainstream tour operators.
Environmental and infrastructure relief
The environmental impact of overcrowded beaches has also become a concern. Local councils report increased sewage output, litter accumulation and strain on waste collection services during peak months. Some towns are now piloting measures like limiting vehicle access to beachfront areas, installing rubbish bins with sensors, and doubling beach-cleaning schedules.
Infrastructure experts suggest that dispersing tourism inland could ease the burden on coastal roads, ports and airports, and reduce pollution levels.
What lies ahead for Spain’s tourism model
Spain is at a crossroads. Its status as a must-visit destination draws global accolades and currency, yet if local communities feel unwelcome or unable to access traditional leisure, discontent may build.
Many experts suggest policy should incentivise regional promotions, tax long-term lettings rather than family homes, and support small‑scale hospitality projects.
By promoting lesser‑known gems, such as Roman‑era villages, hiking trails, or cultural routes, of which there are plenty, Spain may better manage tourism flows while reconnecting Spaniards with their own homeland.
A summer of reckoning
As July unfolds, Spaniards are already witnessing the impact on their pocketbooks, leisure and national identity. Will Spain adapt its tourism model in time to preserve its social fabric and ecological resilience? Today’s data serves as both a cautionary note and a catalyst. It challenges the nation to redefine a future in which visitors and locals both feel welcome and not at odds for years to come.
Spain 2025 tobacco price rise: New costs, EU tax & health risks
PUBLISHED: 2025-07-14 09:59:52Spain raised tobacco prices on July 12, 2025. See updated costs for cigars, cigarettes, chewing tobacco, the EU tax plan, and new fertility findings.
Starting Saturday, July 12, 2025, all smokers in Spain started paying more for tobacco after the Government’s official gazette (BOE) published a new price list that applies to everything from premium cigars to low-cost chewing tobacco.
Two days after Spain’s latest tobacco price rises kicked in, smokers are already feeling the burn in both throat and wallet. The Government’s official gazette (BOE) published the updated tariffs on Friday, and from the first minute of Saturday every legal form of tobacco ' from prestige cigars to bargain chewing blends ' jumped in price across the country.
Shock sticker prices
Montecristo “Carmen” 250 Aniversario: a collector’s indulgence at €125 for a ten-cigar box.
Torres de Quart Campesinos: still the cheapest smoke on the shelf, but now €0.75 per stick.
Makla chewing tobacco (20 g): up to €1.85 on the mainland.
Al Fakher “Magic Love” shisha molasses (900 g): nudging €65.
Spain’s network of tobacco retailers had warned of a big hike before the ink was dry.
Brussels mulls an extra EU levy.
The price pressure may not stop there. The European Commission is reportedly considering a fast-tracked EU-wide tobacco tax increase, aimed at supporting defence spending under the bloc’s broader strategic goals. The measure has sparked strong opposition in some member states ' Sweden, in particular, voiced firm resistance, calling the proposal “unacceptable” during recent discussions in Brussels.
If pushed through, the plan could see the average price of a cigarette pack in Spain rise to around €7, further tightening the squeeze on smokers already reeling from the latest national hike.
Cigarettes hit sperm harder than vapes, warns major new study
Adding insult to injury for Spain’s smokers, a bombshell new study in Nature has confirmed what fertility doctors have long suspected: traditional cigarettes are far worse for sperm than e-cigs.
Researchers found that men who smoke cigarettes have significantly lower sperm quality and motility compared to those who vape. While both habits carry risks, old-school tobacco hits male fertility the hardest, raising alarm bells for men hoping to start a family.
The findings are especially grim for those undergoing IVF, with experts warning that sluggish sperm from smoking could sabotage fertility treatments.
The takeaway? If the prices don’t get you, the swimmers might.
Where things stand
With luxury sticks at €125 and budget smokes rising to €0.75, Spain’s smokers now face higher costs, looming EU taxes, and stark health warnings ' all at once. Many may conclude it is finally time to stub out, before both finances and fertility go up in smoke.
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Risotto rice and flamingos shouldn’t mix
PUBLISHED: 2025-07-14 09:50:24Rice is one of the most important food crops, feeding millions of people across the world and there are many different types of rice to enjoy.
In Italy, there is the famous risotto which isn’t a rice in its own right, but is made from one of a number of different types of rice such as Arborio, Carnaroli, or Vialone Nano, all of which can absorb a great deal of moisture without becoming mushy.
Whilst we all know about the paddy fields of Asia, there are also a number of paddy fields in Northern Italy where the expensive rice used in risottos is grown, but there is an unexpected and unwelcome problem.
Risotto rice and flamingos shouldn’t mix as rice loses out
Flocks of flamingos have made the journey from Southern Spain, France and even north Africa and have migrated to Italy due to drought conditions over the past few years and they just love to adopt paddy fields.
The flamingos haven’t suddenly become gourmet eaters dining out on risotto, but the paddy fields are ideal for them to use their webbed feet to stir up the soil and snatch molluscs, algae or insects from the shallow water, with the rice being uprooted during the process.
Farmers are in a quandary as they can’t simply kill the flamingos which are ruining their livelihoods so they have had to take what measures they can to try to frighten them off.
Noise of all types has been known to scare the flamingos off so there is a regular hooting of horns, banging of dustbin lids and even use of small gas cannons to make a huge boom but whilst this is a short term solution, the flamingos simply move onto another of the many paddy fields situated between Venice and Ravenna.
Risotto rice and flamingos shouldn’t mix and could force change in growing traditions
The local rice growers association is looking at ways to discourage the flamingos from choosing their fields and it may well be that they will have to reduce the depth of water in their paddy fields as rice can seed with a simple covering of water rather than the traditional 30cm depth which attracts these wading birds.
The Plaza Sagrado Corazón de Jesús turns 100
PUBLISHED: 2025-07-14 08:42:11On Sunday, July 13, Los Montesinos celebrated the centenary of the Plaza Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, the town’s first public square ever established. Founded 100 years ago, in 1924, and located next to the Los Montesinos Town Hall and the Parish Church, the Plaza has become an emblematic space of the town.
The celebration kicked off at 8:15 PM and included a floral offering, as well as performances by talented singers the Crescendo and Aromas de Azahar choirs. All residents and visitors were welcome at the event.
Mayor of Los Montesinos, José Manuel Butrón, said of the celebration, “This 100th anniversary is a very special moment for our town. The Plaza Sagrado Corazón de Jesús is not only an emblematic space due to its history and tradition, but also because it represents the living heart of our town. We want to thank all the neighbours that have taken care of and valued this heritage during these 100 years.”
The celebration marked the town’s commitment to celebrating local culture, heritage, and history. For these past 100 years, the Plaza has been a place where neighbours can gather, where parties and festivities have taken place, and where the community can be unified. With this anniversary, Los Montesinos honours their roots and traditions, and hopes to celebrate 100 more years as a united town in the beautiful Plaza.
Ramón de Campoamor Civic Centre to be reformed
PUBLISHED: 2025-07-14 10:09:14Orihuela Costa’s abandoned building, the Ramón de Campoamor Civic Centre, could soon be reformed. The Centre, which has been closed for the past five years due to damage, has recently been proposed by officials to be subject to a €295,000 renovation plan, which would result in a complete overhaul of the structure.
Built in 2011, the Ramón de Campoamor Centre originally housed activities and events related to cultural, educational, and leisure activities for the local residents. Moreover, it also had a library with a special section dedicated to Ramón de Campoamor. A decade later, in January of 2021, structural problems began to be detected, and finally, in December, the centre was evicted and completely shut down as it was unsafe for public use.
Now, four years later, the Centre has fallen into disrepair and damage ' sinking of the adjacent sidewalk, water leaking through holes in the basement wall, cracks in the partitions inside, wall tiles bulging, warping, and falling, doors that can no longer close properly, cracks in structural pillars, cracks in the central span of the building, cracks in the basement, and the detachment of pieces from the side and rear façades. A walkthrough was completed to assess the damage in March of last year, by Councillor Anabel García and an architect.
New Centres, for New Beginnings
In addition to this effort, the Orihuela City Council has also allocated just over €76,000 for technical plans to build a new Civic Centre, for a multipurpose building worth €2.5 million. This building is currently being proposed for a location on Calle Madreperla in La Zenia, near the famous mall. The plot will span 12,298 square metres, with 6,000 of them being a developed area and a 1,000 square metre parking lot.
The space will also include a new 2,500 square metre auditorium with a stage and a seating capacity for 2,000 people. The Centre will also house a 400 square metre basement, a gym with changing rooms, offices for administration, and a second, smaller auditorium where talks and events can be held.
The Mercadona ready meal winning over Mallorca shoppers this summer
PUBLISHED: 2025-07-14 08:44:25Interest in ready meals that combine quality, flavour, and nutritional value continues to grow among Spanish consumers. In recent months, various reviews have highlighted one particularly successful product from Mercadona’s ready-to-eat meals section.
Specifically, a recent study by the Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) has singled out a prepared dish that stands out from the rest thanks to its excellent value for money, freshness, and well-balanced flavours. It is a tuna empanada that has managed to position itself as the best option among a range of similar products offered by different supermarket chains in Spain.
This recognition also reflects a clear trend: today’s consumers are looking for quick solutions without compromising on quality or the overall culinary experience, and brands are responding to this demand with products tailored to meet those expectations.
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The tuna empanada and its success
The tuna empanada evaluated by the OCU stands out for its use of fresh, well-selected ingredients. The study examined eight empanadas available across different supermarkets and concluded that the one analysed offers a filling with a clearly recognisable tuna flavour, avoiding that processed or tinned taste that some similar products tend to have.
Moreover, the texture of the pastry is another strong point: crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, without becoming dry or stodgy. The balance of key ingredients such as tomato and boiled egg is well achieved, with nothing overpowering, allowing the product to avoid being overly rich while maintaining a pleasant flavour profile from the first bite.
This ready meal also stands out for its versatility ' it can be eaten hot or cold, making it suitable for a quick lunch, a packed meal, or even something to share on a beach day. The empanada emerges as a reliable option for those seeking fast food of superior quality without sacrificing authentic flavour.
Other high-quality ready meals
The empanada is not the only product to receive high praise in the OCU’s report. Alongside it, four other Mercadona dishes were highlighted as favourites thanks to their flavour, presentation, and balanced nutritional profile.
One standout is the teriyaki chicken with rice ' a dish featuring tender pieces of chicken coated in a mild, flavourful teriyaki sauce, served with white rice. This meal has won over consumers looking for an Asian-inspired taste with the convenience of a ready-to-eat product.
The yakisoba noodles with meat and vegetables also impress with their texture and flavour. The meat remains juicy, the vegetables crisp, and the signature sauce adds a sweet-and-savoury note reminiscent of Oriental cuisine. It’s a popular choice for those after something a bit different yet still practical.
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For those who prefer heartier meals, the rice with secreto ibérico (a prized cut of Iberian pork) and mushrooms offers a satisfying and well-executed option. With a selection of mushrooms such as shiitake, button, and oyster mushrooms, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality combination of flavours, with a rich and well-balanced seasoning.
Finally, the chicken curry with rice stands out not only for its exotic flavour but also for its well-considered nutritional profile ' low in saturated fats and sugars, and with a significant protein content. It’s ideal for those seeking a balance between convenience and healthy eating.
Hollywood star Margot Robbie relaxes at iconic Balearic beach club
PUBLISHED: 2025-07-14 09:09:20Renowned Australian actress Margot Robbie was recently seen enjoying a sunny day at O Beach Ibiza, one of the island’s most famous beach clubs. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning seaside views, O Beach Ibiza attracts celebrities and partygoers alike.
The Hollywood star made the most of her time on the island, taking a break from her busy schedule to relax in a beautiful setting. Surrounded by friends, Robbie embraced the laid-back yet energetic vibe that O Beach Ibiza is celebrated for. The club’s unique blend of music, sun, and party culture created the perfect backdrop for her to recharge and enjoy the moment.
O Beach Ibiza is well-known for its festive atmosphere, which features world-class DJs and entertaining shows, drawing crowds from all over the globe. For Margot Robbie, this meant the chance to not only soak up the Mediterranean sun but also to immerse herself in the dynamic environment that has made the venue a hotspot in the Portmany municipality. It was clear that she was savoring every aspect of the experience.
Throughout her visit, Robbie’s presence added an extra touch of glamour to the beach club’s already vibrant scene. Fans and onlookers caught glimpses of the actress enjoying good music and lively company, a reminder that even global stars appreciate moments of relaxation and fun away from the cameras. Her casual yet stylish appearance fit right in with the chic, festive crowd.
Who is Margot Robbie?
Margot Robbie is an acclaimed Australian actress and producer who has risen to international fame through her versatile performances in both independent films and major Hollywood productions. She first gained widespread recognition with her role in the TV series Neighbours before breaking out with films like The Wolf of Wall Street and Suicide Squad, where she portrayed the iconic Harley Quinn. Most recently, Robbie captured global attention starring as the main character in Barbie, a role that further solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s leading talents. Known for her talent, charm, and dedication to her craft, Robbie has become one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry, earning multiple award nominations and critical praise along the way.
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