The Madrid Book Fair, embarking on its 84th edition, encountered unforeseen obstacles shortly after its commencement. Despite the initial enthusiasm marked by the presence of Queen Letizia at the inauguration, the fair was abruptly notified by the management of El Retiro Park about an impending evacuation. The park was to be cleared starting at 4:00 PM due to the activation of a red alert for adverse meteorological conditions expected at 6:00 PM, as per the fair's official statement.

Following the inauguration ceremony, the fair's booths ceased operations at 2:00 PM. Consequently, all scheduled events, including author signings and various activities associated with the Madrid Book Fair, were suspended in the central zone of the Paseo de Coches. The statement emphasized that the closure was final for the day.

The organizers assured that they would provide updates regarding the situation caused by the heat on Saturday morning, reflecting the unpredictable impact of extreme weather on cultural events.