Madrid (EFE) - On Wednesday, April 16, 2025, six communities in eastern Spain and Melilla are under a yellow alert due to atmospheric instability, with rainfall expected to reach between 20 and 30 liters per hour. The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has warned of strong winds with gusts of up to 80 km/h, snow in mountainous regions, and adverse coastal phenomena.
Catalonia has activated a yellow alert in Tarragona province due to maximum wind gusts of up to 70 km/h. In Girona, the yellow alert extends to the Ampurdán region, where north winds of 50 to 60 km/h (force 7) are anticipated. In the Arán Valley (Lleida), snow accumulation is expected to reach 10 centimeters above 1,200 meters in just 24 hours.
In addition to these warnings, the Region of Murcia, the entire Valencian Community, Albacete province (Castilla-La Mancha), and Melilla will experience winds reaching between 70 and 80 kilometers per hour. The Balearic archipelago is also under a yellow alert for rain, with similar accumulations of 20 to 30 liters per square meter expected, potentially accompanied by hail.
Meanwhile, the provinces of Almería and Granada in Andalusia are facing yellow alerts due to maximum gusts of 70 km/h and adverse coastal phenomena, with waves expected to reach between 2 and 3 meters. These weather conditions are a result of a polar air mass affecting the Peninsula, leading to a significant drop in temperatures.
The Aemet has noted that with the yellow alerts in place, there is no meteorological risk for the general population, although specific activities may be at risk due to potentially dangerous weather phenomena. This situation is typical for this time of year, as the saying goes, 'April showers bring May flowers.'
On Tuesday, April 15, the Aemet had already warned that a polar air mass would cause a significant drop in temperatures, especially affecting the northeastern quadrant of the Peninsula. Widespread showers, occasionally accompanied by thunderstorms, were expected to impact the Balearic Islands as well.
The weather instability is forecasted to continue throughout the week, with general precipitation expected across the country. However, a brief period of calm is anticipated on Thursday, April 17, when only Galicia is expected to experience moderate rainfall. On this day, temperatures are also expected to rise slightly.
As the weather front continues to move across the Peninsula, the Aemet has warned of the potential for strong winds, particularly in coastal areas and mountainous regions. The combination of rain and wind has raised concerns, especially for those participating in Holy Week processions, which are traditionally held during this time.
In light of the adverse weather, the Generalitat Valenciana has issued recommendations for residents to take precautions against strong winds. Citizens are advised to avoid walking in wooded areas, construction sites, or abandoned buildings, and to secure any items on balconies or terraces that could be blown away.
The situation is compounded by the arrival of a new weather system, which is expected to bring additional rain and possible thunderstorms. As the week progresses, the Aemet continues to monitor conditions closely, advising the public to stay informed about any changes in weather alerts.
Additionally, the Aemet has reported that the Segura basin's reservoirs have increased in capacity, now holding 328 cubic hectometers, which is five more than the previous week. However, this is still only 28.8% of their total capacity.
As the week unfolds, temperatures are expected to fluctuate, with highs reaching up to 23ºC in Castellón, while many areas will experience lows near freezing. The cold snap is a stark reminder that spring weather can be unpredictable, especially in regions accustomed to milder temperatures.
In conclusion, as Spain braces for a week of variable weather, the Aemet's alerts serve as a crucial reminder for citizens to remain vigilant and prepared for the changing conditions. With rain, wind, and snow on the horizon, it's essential to stay informed and take the necessary precautions.
