FLASH NEWS
VOA: Small businesses in Albania feel the consequences of the heat wave
2024-07-23 20:09:48 / EKONOMI&SOCIALE
Small businesses are feeling the effects of the heat in the capital Tirana, while Albania faces a major heat wave. Temperatures have reached 42 degrees, forcing tourists and residents to stay indoors.
Normally Skenderbej Square in the capital is full of passers-by, but the heat wave has pushed many people to avoid the center.
With average temperatures at 38 degrees Celsius, the fountains offer some refreshment.
The heat wave has had a negative impact on the bars and cafes of Tirana for two weeks, while customers do not frequent them during the hot hours of the day.
Bar owners have tried to install air conditioners and other cooling equipment, but people avoid going out until dinnertime.
Temperatures have reached up to 42 degrees Celsius in the southeast and in the central part of the country, while in the capital the average has remained at 37-38 degrees Celsius.
The streets of the center of Tirana and the cafes are almost empty.
"The heat wave has a direct negative impact, to be honest. Normally there is no work during the day, thus increasing costs. The breakfast and dinner work does not cover the expenses and we have many difficulties", says the 38-year-old waitress, Albana Mrishaj.
At noon, very few people can be seen in Skënderbej Square, and the few people who pass by refresh themselves in the fountains.
The same scene is along the "Dëshmorët e Kombit" Boulevard, where the government buildings and the public university are located.
"As you can see, all the bars are empty, although we have tried to improve the situation in the indoor environment. It is however impossible to stay outside in temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius. The few customers only consume cold drinks and water", says the 28-year-old waitress, Alesja Masha.
In Albania, the number of foreign tourists has increased, but even they have to stay indoors due to the heat during the day.
Small businesses, cafes and bars are trying to improve conditions.
They've spent big this summer adding air conditioners and coolers inside and out.
"Although there are many tourists in Tirana, the temperatures have had their impact and the few customers who come consume only soft drinks, causing a drastic drop in income", says 23-year-old waiter Klajdi Ndregjoni.
Only during dinners do the bars and restaurants begin to be frequented. The owners of small businesses in Tirana are eagerly waiting for a drop in temperatures./ VOA
Happening now...
America may withdraw from Europe, but not from SPAK
Nga Gentian Gaba
ideas
top
Alfa recipes
TRENDING 
services
- POLICE129
- STREET POLICE126
- AMBULANCE112
- FIREFIGHTER128