Unsettled Weather Ahead: Spain Braces for Wind, Fog, and Rain

As the first week of January 2025 unfolds, Spain is gearing up for a period of unpredictable and potentially disruptive weather, affecting various regions across the country.

Wind and Fog Warnings

On Tuesday, January 8, several provinces in Spain are expected to be under weather alerts due to strong winds and dense fog. The northern region of Cantabria, along with other provinces, will experience significant weather conditions that could impact daily life.

Dense and persistent fog, similar to what was seen in the early days of January, will continue to cause issues in parts of the country. Regions such as Aragon, Castilla y Leon, Castilla-La Mancha, Catalonia, Navarra, the Basque Country, and La Rioja have already faced yellow warnings for fog, and this trend is set to continue[1][3].

Rain and Storms

The weather forecast indicates that several storm fronts will approach Spain, particularly affecting the northern and Atlantic-facing regions. On Friday, January 3, Galicia remains on alert for heavy rain and dangerous sea conditions, setting the stage for a wet and windy weekend[1][3].

As the weekend progresses, the north and west of Spain can expect significant rainfall. Spotty showers will spread to the Basque Country, Castilla y León, La Rioja, Navarra, and the Pyrenees. The Cantabrian coastline is among the areas that could receive over 40mm of rain in just 12 hours, prompting yellow alerts from AEMET, Spain's state meteorological agency[3].

Impact on Three Kings’ Parade

The inclement weather is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with the celebrations of the Three Kings’ Parade (Cabalgata de Reyes) on January 5. Families gathering for this festive event, especially in the northwest, should be prepared for heavy rainfall. Regions such as Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, Castilla y León, Extremadura, and western Andalucía are expected to be hit by downpours, while the Mediterranean coastline and the Canary Islands might escape with lighter showers[3].

Snow in Higher Elevations

Higher elevations are not spared from the wintry conditions either. Snow is forecasted to fall in the Pyrenees above 1,800-2,000 meters and in the Cordillera Cantábrica above 800 meters. This could make travel hazardous and add a layer of excitement to the festive season with the possibility of skiing and snowfall[3].

Preparations and Safety

Given the adverse weather conditions, residents and visitors alike are advised to take necessary precautions. Avoiding unnecessary travel, staying indoors during storms, and preparing for potential flooding or power outages are recommended. The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued several warnings, emphasizing the need for caution and vigilance.

As Spain navigates this turbulent weather period, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest forecasts and advisories. Expats and locals should ensure they have the necessary supplies and plans in place to weather the storms safely and comfortably.