A changing climate for traditions
A recent study by the Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV) has shown that the weather conditions for building castles during the summer are worsening due to climate change. The analysis, which covers the period from 1951 to 2023, reveals a significant increase in temperature, with increases ranging from 0.42 °C per decade in Valls on June 24th to 0.30 °C per decade in La Bisbal del Penedès on August 15th.
Impact of extreme temperatures on festivities
Researchers have identified that during festivities such as the Santa Anna Day in El Vendrell and the Llorenç del Penedès Festival, heat indices reach levels of ‘maximum caution’. The study, entitled “Challenges of the casteller activity in the face of climate change”, has been carried out by the URV’s University Institute for Research on Sustainability, Climate Change and Energy Transition (IURESCAT), with the support of the URV Chair for the Study of the Fet Casteller Activity.
Revealing data about the Heat Index
The combination of temperature and humidity has revealed a worrying trend: a decrease in days with a neutral Heat Index (HI), an increase in years considered ‘precautionary’ and the presence of periods of ‘maximum caution’. During the days analyzed, the temperature has exceeded 30 °C on seven occasions.
Heat records in the places
The highest temperatures were recorded in Vilafranca del Penedès (34.6°C), Torredembarra (34.4°C) and El Vendrell (33.9°C). In addition, it was observed that temperatures in the square are usually higher than in shady areas, with differences that can reach up to 4°C.
The urban heat island effect
The urban heat island phenomenon has contributed to the high temperatures recorded during the holidays. In most cases, IC values have been in the ‘caution’ range, with extreme spikes during festivals such as Sant Fèlix.
Recommendations for the safety of castellers
The study also included participatory workshops with castellers to identify the most favorable weather conditions for building castells. The opinions collected indicate that the optimal temperature for building castells ranges between 18.5°C and 25.5°C, while above 34°C, suspension of activities should be considered.
Looking to the future: necessary adaptations
One of the key conclusions of the study is the need to discuss and implement adaptation measures to climate change, prioritizing the safety of participants and the preservation of the cultural heritage that the castells represent. This objective requires collaboration between castellers, event organizers and public administrations.