As the Semana Santa festivities unfold across Spain, a significant weather system is impacting various regions, particularly Galicia and Catalunya. On Thursday, April 17, 2025, an active frontal system is expected to approach Galicia, bringing cloudy intervals and precipitation starting in the west and extending throughout the community by afternoon and evening, according to Meteogalicia.
In Galicia, the forecast indicates that the rain will be most significant, marking a stark contrast to the otherwise calm weather expected in other parts of the country. The Agency of Meteorology (Aemet) has reported that Thursday will be the most stable day of Semana Santa, with only scattered precipitation expected. In Badajoz, temperatures are projected to range from 12 to 21 degrees Celsius, while Cáceres will see a minimum of 9 degrees and a maximum of 18 degrees.
Meanwhile, Catalunya is advised to take advantage of the last hours of calm before a weather front arrives over the weekend. The forecast indicates that starting Saturday, April 19, 2025, instability will increase, leading to showers and potential storms, especially in the interior and mountainous regions. The snow level is expected to drop to around 1,300 meters in the Pyrenees.
On Good Friday, April 18, the weather will remain stable in Catalunya, with sunny skies in the morning giving way to clouds in the afternoon, particularly in the mountainous areas. Maximum temperatures are expected to approach 20 degrees Celsius outside the Pyrenees, with minimum temperatures dipping below 10 degrees in most towns and cities.
However, the pleasant weather will be short-lived. A new weather system is predicted to bring significant changes starting Saturday, with abundant cloud cover and sporadic showers expected. The heaviest precipitation is anticipated in the interior and the Pyrenees, with possible intense storms and hail.
The forecast paints a picture of a dynamic weather situation continuing into the following week. Sunday, April 20, is expected to see clearer skies, although some afternoon showers may occur in the Pyrenees and Prepirineo. Easter Monday, April 21, is anticipated to be a decent day, with sunny mornings and potential showers in the northeast.
The weather instability is not limited to Catalunya and Galicia. Across the country, many regions are bracing for rain and cooler temperatures due to the arrival of a trough affecting the northern part of Spain. The forecast indicates widespread showers, with the northern half of the country expected to experience the most significant rainfall.
On Saturday, April 19, the weather will shift dramatically, with widespread showers expected, particularly in the northern regions, and the possibility of storms in the northeast. The Aemet has warned of yellow alerts for strong winds in several regions, including Melilla, Comunidad Valenciana, Murcia, and Cataluña.
As Semana Santa progresses, the tourism sector is optimistic, expecting an increase in sales of over 5% compared to previous years. With 9 million trips planned until Monday, April 21, 2025, the increase in travel is a positive sign for the industry. The forecasted weather changes, however, may impact outdoor activities and traditional religious processions, especially in areas like Galicia, where rain is expected to dominate.
In Extremadura, the weather forecast remains bleak during Semana Santa, with lower temperatures and rain affecting the celebrations. The Aemet has indicated that rain and storms will likely disrupt the processions, particularly as the weather deteriorates from Good Friday onward.
On Thursday, April 17, Extremadura will experience a break from the rain, but the forecast suggests that weak and scattered precipitation may occur. The temperatures will range between 5 and 20 degrees Celsius, with the possibility of rain and storms throughout the week.
The weather is expected to remain unstable, with predictions of further rain and snow in various regions. The snow level is set to drop to around 1,400 meters on Holy Saturday, and the potential for frost has already been observed, as seen in Viladrau where temperatures dipped to -0.3 degrees Celsius.
As the week progresses, the weather will fluctuate, with another system expected to bring showers and storms on Tuesday, April 22. The instability is likely to continue through Sant Jordi on April 23, with predictions of storms and hail in Girona, Barcelona, and the interior.
In summary, while Semana Santa is a time for celebration, the weather is proving to be a significant factor this year. With varying forecasts across the regions, it is essential for residents and visitors alike to stay updated on the latest weather conditions to navigate their plans effectively.
