The final days of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 will be marked by significant weather events across Spain, primarily under the influence of the latest DANA (Descending Cold Air Current). Experts from the Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET) have indicated this phenomenon will bring rain and cold temperatures to various regions, especially the Mediterranean coast.
Rubén del Campo, spokesperson for AEMET, explained, "This DANA will be accompanied by humid winds from the Mediterranean, leading to increased instability especially over the regions including Valencia, Murcia, southern Andalusia, and the Balearic Islands." This prolonged pattern could result in substantial rain showers and local thunderstorms.
During the last weekend of December, many areas experienced chilling weather, with temperatures plunging to -8°C, as seen in Molina de Aragón and -5°C elsewhere like Teruel. Del Campo added, "The cold will persist as fog continues to blanket many interior regions, maintaining frigid conditions throughout the daytime hours. Cities such as Valladolid and Salamanca saw maximum temperatures not exceeding 5°C over the weekend.
Looking to the New Year's celebrations, forecasters warned of significant precipitation, predicting rainfall accumulations reaching up to 20 liters per square meter per hour and 60 liters over 12 hours, particularly affecting coastal communities. This forms part of the current DANA's expected path, causing rain and localized storms among eastern coastal areas.
By New Year's Eve, chilly conditions will linger across the interior, with widespread frost expected. Del Campo stated, "This New Year's Eve will be especially cold, with temperatures potentially dropping below zero across many regions at midnight, especially on the northern meseta. While people gather for festivities, Madrid will hover around 2°C during the midnight countdown, marking the entrance to 2025 with chilly conditions.
The weather on January 1st will mirror the prior day’s conditions, with rain showers remaining predominant, particularly along the Mediterranean coasts. AEMET forecasts similar weather for the start of 2025, with instability remaining over the Mediterranean regions. Del Campo noted, "Persistent fog will continue to plague river valleys, maintaining bleak and cold weather across the interior. These conditions are expected to keep people bundled up as they navigate the New Year.
Despite the anticipated rain and fog, the DANA phenomenon does not guarantee severe, torrential downpours and the consequences of these weather patterns rely on various factors. Areas less affected by rainfall will enjoy clearer, stable weather, allowing for some respite from winter’s chill.
Moving forward through the week, AEMET indicated alterations to the weather patterns as Atlantic fronts approach Galicia, expected to bring additional rain mainly to northwestern Spain. This transition is likely to raise temperatures gradually, reducing frost throughout the country. By the end of the week, expect drinks of rainfall, particularly focused on Galicia and the western half of the peninsula.
While winter storms can generate dramatic changes, forecasters are focused on ensuring the public remains informed about potential hazards. The agency advised areas prone to flooding or significant rainfall to stay vigilant. With the DANA phenomenon forecast to continue impacting the country, residents are encouraged to stay updated with the latest weather warnings and advisories.
Regardless of the weather challenges, locals and visitors alike will ring in the New Year with celebrations under the cold Spanish skies, adapted for the chilly conditions as anticipation for higher temperatures and clearer days looks to arrive by the weekend.