Vienna Pools Open Earlier Amid Heatwave

Vienna's family swimming pools are set to open their gates earlier starting this Saturday, responding to an intense heatwave.

This change overrides a decision made earlier in the year, which planned for a later opening at 1 p.m. before the summer holidays began on July 3. The earlier opening was initially postponed due to budget concerns and lower expected attendance before the holidays. However, with temperatures in Vienna predicted to reach up to 40 degrees Celsius this weekend, prompting the highest heat warning level, the city is prioritizing public access to cooling facilities.

"Children are particularly vulnerable in extreme heat. The family pools offer them and the entire family a chance to cool off in the water and find shade," stated Climate and Pool Councilor Jürgen Czernohorszky. The family pools will remain free for children, while the city's 19 public outdoor pools will maintain their regular hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.