Prague Opens Air‑Conditioned Cooling Center at Škoda Palace Amid Heat Wave

The city of Prague opened the air‑conditioned ground floor of the Škoda Palace on Jungmannova Street to the public on July 31 and August 1, offering a cool refuge during a forecast heat wave with temperatures expected to rise above 30 °C and peak over 35 °C. Visitors can sit on benches, use drinking fountains, toilets and purchase snacks, providing temporary relief especially for seniors, children and those with health conditions.

The measure follows a warning from the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute about very high temperatures. Deputy mayor for the Environment and Climate Plan Jana Komrsková said, "In these hot days, when temperatures exceed 35 °C, our bodies are really put to the test… we want to give Prague residents a place to rest, escape the heat and drink water." Other districts in Prague are also preparing cooled spaces in town halls and public venues, and the city has launched a map of "cooling oases" showing locations with air‑conditioning, water fountains and shade.

These actions aim to mitigate health risks associated with the extreme heat and encourage the public to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight and limit strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.