Storm Kristin has become a real test for the people of Spain, especially in the northwest of the country. The sudden deterioration of weather conditions has led to a sharp increase in emergencies, forcing local authorities to take urgent measures. For many Spaniards, this means not only temporary inconveniences, but also a direct threat to safety and significant changes to their usual daily routines.
Marine threat
On Friday, a red danger level was declared along the coast of Galicia due to storm winds and giant waves. In the provinces of A Coruña and Pontevedra, waves are expected to reach heights of more than 9 meters, prompting authorities to strongly recommend staying away from the shoreline. Emergency response teams are operating on heightened alert, and warnings about possible consequences are being disseminated through all available communication channels.
Strong winds and heavy rain have already caused numerous incidents: falling trees, damage to infrastructure, and power outages. Some areas are experiencing transport disruptions, and traffic has been completely halted on certain stretches of road. Authorities emphasize that the situation may worsen in the coming hours, especially in coastal zones.
Rivers overflowing
Not only the sea, but also inland waters pose a threat. In the Duero basin and other major rivers of the country, water levels have reached critical marks. In Salamanca and León, heightened monitoring of riverbeds has been introduced after instances of rivers overflowing their banks. Ourense and Palencia have also recorded alarming figures, prompting hydrological agencies to declare yellow and red danger levels.
In Andalucía and Cádiz, the situation worsened due to rising water in the Guadalete River. As a result, several areas of Jerez de la Frontera were evacuated. Families whose homes were flooded have been temporarily housed in municipal shelters or with relatives. Authorities warn that more evacuations may be necessary if water levels continue to rise.
Roads and transport
Heavy storms and snowfall have paralyzed movement on 71 road sections across the country. Nineteen of them are completely closed, and twenty-one have tough restrictions—mandatory use of chains or bans on certain types of vehicles. The situation is especially difficult in Aragón, Asturias, Castilla y León, and the Comunidad Valenciana.
Road control services remind drivers to keep the left lane clear for special vehicles and snowplows. Motorists are advised to pay close attention to electronic signage and be prepared for sudden changes in route. In some regions, classes have been canceled in schools, while in Andalusia and Extremadura, dozens of municipalities have suspended classes due to severe weather.
Evacuations and aftermath
In Badajoz and the surrounding areas, around 350 people were evacuated due to a sharp rise in the waters of the Gévora, Zapatón, and Caya rivers. Some evacuees were sheltered in sports halls and cared for by the Red Cross, while others found temporary refuge with relatives and friends. Authorities warn of the risk of overnight flooding and urge residents to stay away from riverbanks.
In Cáceres, six hydrological stations on the Jerte, Árrago, Salor, Tiétar, Alagón, and Piedras Albas rivers have recorded dangerous water level increases. Seven reservoirs have been forced to release water to prevent overflowing, which is also affecting conditions downstream. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and are prepared to take new measures to protect residents.
The storm persists
Although forecasts suggest that the peak of the storm has already passed, unstable weather will continue in the coming days. Alerts for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and hail remain in Galicia, as well as in the north and south of the peninsula, and in the Balearic Islands. New snowfalls are expected in mountain areas, and some places may see frost.
Air temperatures will begin to rise across most of the country, except for Cataluña and the southwest, where cooler conditions will persist. Strong westerly winds are expected to continue, especially along the coast and in mountainous areas. Authorities urge residents to exercise caution, stay updated, and avoid unnecessary risks.
