The City Council of Madrid has decided to close access to El Retiro and eight other parks in the city due to weather forecasts warning of wind gusts of up to 68 kilometres per hour. This measure, which will come into effect from 21:00 hours on Friday, June 19, 2026, aims to ensure the safety of citizens in light of the risk of falling branches and trees.
Preventive closure due to adverse conditions
The decision by the City Council is based on reports issued by the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet), which warn of a severe weather episode. Authorities have indicated that the closure affects not only the iconic park but also other green spaces frequently visited by Madrileños. These include the Capricho park, the Rosaleda of the Oeste park, Juan Carlos I park, and Juan Pablo II park. Additionally, several historic estates such as the Quinta de Fuente del Berro and the Quinta Torre Arias will also be closed to the public.
Despite the closure, there is no set date for reopening. The City Council has stated that a thorough inspection of the trees will be necessary before allowing access to these spaces again. The assessment will be carried out by technicians from the Environmental Area, who will determine if there are structural damages or additional risks following the storm.
📢 This Friday, June 19, starting at 21:00 h., the measures outlined in the park protocol for high risk to trees will be activated, according to forecasts from @AEMET_Esp pic.twitter.com/cGurVDZ06w
To keep citizens informed about this situation, the City Council will use its official channels and social media. 22 information panels will be set up at the main entrances, where information on the current status and possible reopening will be constantly updated. Authorities have strongly recommended avoiding areas with trees during this critical period.
As Madrid faces increasingly extreme weather phenomena, such preventive closures may become more common. Climate experts warn of an increase in the frequency and intensity of storms due to climate change, which poses new challenges for large cities like Madrid. Proper and timely management in these situations is essential to protect both citizens and urban natural heritage.
You may also like
