Spain is bracing for significant weather changes as the influence of a powerful Atlantic storm system moves across the country, bringing heavy rain, snow, and strong winds starting this weekend. According to weather forecasts, the first Atlantic storm of 2025 will likely disrupt the mild conditions enjoyed by many during the holiday season, ushering in wintery weather expected to affect several regions.
Starting Friday, weather fronts will begin impacting the northern part of the Iberian Peninsula, with Galicia and the Cantabrian regions being the first to experience the brunt of the incoming storm. Reports indicate persistent precipitation is likely, with weather models predicting significant rainfall accumulation, particularly along the western facade of Spain.
"The storm systems will result in Atlantic tempests characterized by heavy rains and strong winds, with wave heights reaching up to 5 meters along the northern coasts," said meteorologist Mario Picazo. He noted the storm, which is expected to gather strength from the Atlantic Ocean, will lead to intense weather across different areas, mainly focusing on the northwest.
Precipitation amounts could exceed 300 mm over the coming week, particularly impacting the region around the Pyrenees and the northern mountains. Snowfall is forecast above 1,000 meters, primarily affecting areas such as the Cantabric Mountains and the Pyrenees, moderated by fluctuated temperatures and rising snow levels.
Impact on northern regions will likely be severe, especially along the coastline where blustery conditions and high waves are anticipated. Weather experts have emphasized the importance of monitoring weather conditions throughout this period.
Weather forecasts highlight the rain will extend across the northern third of Spain and could sporadically touch parts of the central plateau and the Sierra Central mountains. That said, the eastern and southern regions of the Peninsular may remain largely unaffected, continuing to enjoy comparatively drier conditions. On January 6, coinciding with the Day of the Kings celebrations, revelers will encounter rainy conditions across many northern parts.
Despite the forecasted inclement weather, temperatures during the day may rise to around 20 degrees Celsius in select provinces, which could create confusion about whether winter has truly settled. Strong winds accompanying the rain will contribute to colder feelings during periods of sunshine.
The storm system is expected to produce unstable atmospheric conditions, particularly starting Saturday when moist air from the Atlantic begins to infiltrate the region. Cloud cover will increase significantly, especially over the northern skies.
Areas of major concern have surfaced around the predictions for exceptionally heavy rain and strong winds. These conditions are expected to persist through the weekend and early next week, creating treacherous situations for residents and travelers alike.
Fluctuations are anticipated as the cold fronts move through, transitioning clouds to rain and potentially snow as higher altitudes become affected. Earlier weather patterns had allowed for dry air, but the incoming systems will mark the end of the mild spell.
Weather patterns up through the coming weekend suggest fluctuations across the nation, but particularly substantial changes for northern Spain as they prepare for what seems to be the first notable weather shift of 2025.
Overall, Spain is set to experience what has historically been termed as "El tren de borrascas," or train of storms, between January 6 and January 10. This symbolizes consecutive storm systems arriving one after another, potentially leading to overarching weather impacts across the peninsula.
Weather watchers are advised to stay vigilant and prepared for these transitions as they develop throughout the weekend, which will undoubtedly affect various regions and could alter planned festivities.
The situation remains dynamic, and authorities encourage the public to stay updated through local weather services and announcements. The next few days will not only test the resilience of Spain’s ability to manage storms but will also vividly portray the dramatic shifts characteristic of early-year weather.