"It was an oven here": Cuers seeks shade amid heatwaves

The town of Cuers in the Var region of France is actively seeking to cool down its streets in response to increasingly severe and early heatwaves. Since 2022, the commune has been engaged in a "low-temperature city" initiative, transforming its urban environment to offer relief from the scorching sun. Residents have described the town as feeling like an "oven" during recent heat episodes. To combat this, Cuers is deploying a range of strategies. Shade structures, known as ombrières, are being installed to block direct sunlight. The planting of more trees is also a key component, providing natural shade and contributing to a cooler microclimate. Additionally, the town is utilizing adapted surface materials that reflect solar radiation rather than absorbing it, further helping to reduce ambient temperatures. These measures are specifically designed to break up the phenomenon of urban heat islands, where built-up areas absorb and retain more heat than surrounding rural areas. By implementing these strategies, Cuers aims to create a more comfortable and resilient environment for its inhabitants facing the growing challenge of extreme heat.