Britons heading to Spain this summer may find it harder to enjoy al fresco dining, as a new law could force restaurants and bars to close their terraces during extreme weather. The regulation, part of the National Labour Agreement for the Hospitality Sector (ALEH), aims to protect workers from heat-related health risks.
Under the new rules, when Spain issues orange or red weather alerts due to high temperatures, businesses with outdoor terraces must reduce or suspend outdoor activities. However, they can continue serving customers indoors, provided they have adequate cooling systems or adjust working hours to minimise heat exposure.
The changes are likely to affect holidaymakers in May, as the El Niño weather pattern is forecast to return, bringing sustained warm temperatures and potentially triggering red alerts across Spain. The World Meteorological Organization has warned that this year's event could be 'strong', leading to especially hot weather between May and July.
Businesses that fail to comply, for instance by forcing staff to work outdoors during a red alert, could face fines of over €50,000 (around £43,000) from the country's Labor and Social Security Inspectorate.
This is not the only change Brits face this summer. The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) will be implemented at Spanish and other EU airports, potentially causing queues. Additionally, more Spanish cities are introducing tourist taxes to combat overtourism, and Barcelona is diverting cruise ships to a port further from the city centre.
