Description
As Spain faces an unprecedented heatwave this time of year, Madrid's Rio "beach" opens weeks in advance, allowing the public to cool down in its water jets. This follows the regional government of Madrid's decision to open the "beach" and some public swimming pools earlier in the year to help people cool off.
This week's high temperatures may break Madrid's historic 40-year heat record for the month of April. Last year, the water area of Madrid Rio park only opened in June. "This heat wave has brought it (the reopening of pools) forward by 15 to 20 days, which was never expected in April, which is spring weather, not summer weather," says Juan Cabreo. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES