Vilnius public transport rolls out AC tracker as heatwave grips the Baltics
To help residents and visitors cope with extreme heat this weekend, Vilnius public transport operator JUDU has introduced a feature that shows which buses and trolleybuses have working air conditioning.
Vilnius public transport operator JUDU is urging residents and visitors to take precautions while traveling this weekend as forecasters predict extreme heat across the Lithuanian capital. The agency advises passengers to stay hydrated, plan trips during cooler parts of the day and pay close attention to signs of heat-related illness.
To help travellers avoid the hottest conditions, JUDU has introduced a new feature allowing passengers to see in advance which buses and trolleybuses are equipped with operating air conditioning systems. The information is now available through the city’s online journey planner at stops.lt, as well as on virtual departure boards and electronic displays at public transport stops. Vehicles with functioning air conditioning are marked with a snowflake symbol.
While most of Vilnius’ buses and trolleybuses are fitted with air conditioning, not every vehicle has the system. Even on air-conditioned vehicles, cooling may be less effective during periods of extreme heat because of frequent door openings at stops and heavy passenger loads.
JUDU recommends that passengers carry drinking water, avoid waiting in direct sunlight whenever possible and travel during the morning or evening, when temperatures are lower. The agency also advises wearing lightweight, light-coloured clothing and a hat, while paying particular attention to children, older adults and people with chronic health conditions, who are more vulnerable to heat-related illness.
Anyone experiencing symptoms such as weakness, dizziness or nausea should move to a cooler place immediately and seek to lower their body temperature, JUDU said. People feeling seriously unwell are urged to call the emergency services by dialling 112.
Passengers can find public transport schedules on JUDU’s website and the stops.lt journey planner, while real-time vehicle information is also available through JUDU’s live information boards, the m.Ticket app and Google Maps.
