The morning in Catalonia began with alarming news: snowstorm Ingrid, which has swept across Spain, has virtually paralyzed traffic on the region’s main highways. Hundreds of vehicles became trapped on snow-covered stretches, while road services are urgently imposing restrictions and requiring the mandatory use of snow chains. The situation is particularly difficult on the approaches to the Pyrenees and in the mountain areas, where the snowfall is relentless.
Drivers caught on the A2 and AP-2 highways faced a real ordeal: snowdrifts, slippery patches, and sudden snowbanks have made driving nearly impossible. On certain sections between Vilagrasa and Vecina, as well as between Albi and L’Espluga de Francolí, the situation is close to critical. Authorities in Lleida and other affected areas are urging maximum caution and strongly advise against traveling unless absolutely necessary.
Snowbound
The snow front is sparing neither major highways nor secondary roads. In the mountains and foothills, where traffic usually flows even in winter, chaos now reigns: snow chains are mandatory in some areas, while in others, movement has come to a complete halt. Residents and visitors of Girona, Valle de Aran, and neighboring municipalities are facing particular difficulties, as roads N-260 and N-230 have turned into white labyrinths.
Road control services are reporting numerous incidents of stranded vehicles and accidents. Drivers unprepared for these conditions are forced to abandon their cars on the roadside to avoid getting trapped in the snow. In some areas, the snow cover has already exceeded five centimeters, and forecasts predict no immediate improvement.
Emergency measures
Authorities in Catalonia have declared a state of heightened readiness. Operations centers are working around the clock, and road services are issuing warnings about the need to use chains on six mountain routes. In the center and northeast of the region, snow levels range from 600 to 700 meters, but in some places, the snow line drops to 300–400 meters, which has come as a complete surprise for many residents.
Civil Protection has activated a special response plan for extreme weather conditions. Reports on social media describe people waiting for hours for assistance on highways, while some road sections have been completely closed to traffic. Drivers are advised to check routes in advance and, if possible, to avoid traveling to mountainous areas.
Unpredictable elements
Meteorologists warn that the snowfall may continue until the evening, with weather conditions changing literally every hour. In some areas, the snow depth has already exceeded all expectations, and the danger level is considered moderate. Road services cannot keep up with clearing all sections, leaving the situation on the roads extremely tense.
Residents of Catalonia are sharing photos and videos of snow-covered streets online, and describing the challenges they have faced due to the sudden bad weather. Many note that they haven’t seen snowfall like this in years and wonder when the region will be able to return to its normal pace of life.
