Madrid's Scorching Heatwave Brings Tree Crisis to Forefront in Vallecas

Madrid's Puente de Vallecas faces extreme heat, highlighting the importance of trees in temperature regulation. Activists call for more tree planting as some poorer neighborhoods lose tree cover under political and environmental challenges. The contrast in shaded vs. treeless areas underscores trees' health benefits amid soaring temperatures.

As Madrid experiences one of its longest and most intense heatwaves, temperatures in the city's Puente de Vallecas neighborhood reached a sweltering 41.4 degrees Celsius. The discrepancy in temperatures, with nearby areas recording slightly lower figures, underscores the critical role of trees in mitigating heat.

Scientific reports highlight that trees significantly influence temperature regulation, a crucial factor as global warming intensifies. However, activist groups warn that tree cover in Madrid is diminishing, particularly in poorer sectors. They call on city officials to increase tree planting initiatives, spotlighting the immediate health impacts of a treeless environment.

The environmental and political discussions around trees have intensified, as Madrid's Mayor Jose Luis Martinez-Almeida faces criticism for removing trees for infrastructure projects. Despite some efforts to plant new trees, reports show a decline in tree coverage in southern districts like Puente de Vallecas, exacerbated by socio-economic conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)