Snowfall Sweeps Across Spain: A Winter Wonderland for Expats

As the first weeks of 2025 unfold, Spain has been gripped by a dramatic and unexpected turn in the weather, bringing snow and wintry conditions to various parts of the country. This sudden change has transformed the landscape, especially in regions that rarely see snow, making it a unique and exciting time for expats living in Spain.

La Maroma's Snowy Surprise

On January 7, 2025, La Maroma, the highest peak in Málaga province, woke up to a blanket of snow, marking the first snowfall of the year in the region. At 2,069 meters above sea level, the summit of La Maroma was adorned with a bright white 'cap' of snow, visible from the surrounding Axarquía region. This rare sight is a treat for both locals and expats, offering a picturesque winter scene in an area more commonly associated with mild Mediterranean weather.

Disrupting the Three Kings Celebrations

The cold and snowy weather has not been limited to mountainous regions. The early days of January 2025 saw cold temperatures and widespread mist across Spain, setting the stage for a dramatic weather change that disrupted the country's beloved Three Kings celebrations. The Cabalgata de Reyes parades, held on January 5, were affected by heavy rainfall, snow, and cold temperatures, particularly in northern and western Spain.

In regions like Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and Castilla y León, families braved the weather to participate in the festivities, with some areas experiencing snowfall as low as 800 meters above sea level. The Pyrenees also saw significant snowfall, with flakes falling above 900 meters, adding a magical touch to the Epiphany celebrations.

Weather Predictions and Alerts

Spanish weather service AEMET issued yellow alerts across parts of the Cantabrian coastline, warning of heavy rainfall and potential snowfall in higher elevations. Meteorologists predicted a major 'change of trend' in the weather, with a fresh wave of cold air sweeping in from the Atlantic, bringing wind, rain, and snow to large swathes of the Peninsula.

Young meteorologist Jorge Rey, known for his traditional forecasting methods, also predicted significant weather changes, including possible snowfall in lower elevations and heavy precipitation along the Mediterranean coastline, affecting areas such as Valencia, Zaragoza, and Teruel.

Skiing and Snow Conditions

For expats who enjoy winter sports, the snowfall has improved skiing conditions in various resorts. In the Pyrenees, resorts like Baqueira Beret in Spain have settled snow depths of 40-70cm, while the Sierra Nevada in southern Spain is expecting fresh snow later in the month. The improved snow conditions have made for excellent skiing, especially after a spell of mostly sunny weather over the Christmas and New Year period.

Preparing for the Weather

As the weather continues to be unpredictable, expats are advised to stay prepared. With further showers and potential snowfall forecasted for the coming weeks, it's essential to keep an eye on local weather updates and plan accordingly. Whether you're planning to ski, attend local festivals, or simply enjoy the winter scenery, this unusual weather has turned Spain into a winter wonderland that is not to be missed.

In conclusion, the sudden onset of snow and wintry conditions has brought a unique charm to Spain, offering expats a chance to experience a side of the country they may not have seen before. As the weather continues to evolve, staying informed and embracing the winter spirit will make this an unforgettable season for all.