This January in Spain promises not only festive cheer but also true winter weather. The capital and several other regions are bracing for a cold front that could blanket streets with snow right as Spaniards await the arrival of the Reyes Magos. The atmosphere of anticipation is mixed with concern: will Madrid once again get trapped by snow as it has in the past?
Meteorologists leave little room for doubt: the chance of snowfall in central Madrid and its suburbs exceeds 80%. In Colmenar Viejo, Alcalá de Henares, and El Casar, the figures are just as impressive. Authorities have already declared a yellow weather alert, and in some areas, orange. Residents are stocking up on warm clothes and warily eyeing the sky, with snow possibly arriving as early as Sunday night into Monday.
Weather warnings
On Sunday afternoon, Madrid and its surroundings will be under a yellow weather alert for snow. Conditions are expected to be especially tough in the mountains, where snow depth could reach 5 centimeters. Up to 2 centimeters of accumulation is forecast for the capital’s metropolitan area and the Henares river valley. Nighttime temperatures will drop to minus 7 degrees, an unusual chill for the Spanish capital.
Emergency services are already on high alert. Drivers are urged to exercise caution, and residents are advised to stay indoors unless necessary. Meanwhile, for many children and adults, the prospect of seeing snow on the day of the Kings’ arrival is a true stroke of luck.
Snow Surprises
Weather conditions are being complicated by a cold air mass moving in from northern Europe. The culprit is cyclonic activity over Scandinavia and a persistent anticyclone above the Atlantic. This ‘corridor’ for Arctic air rarely forms in early January, but this year it’s set to bring snow not only to Madrid, but also to other regions of the country.
The greatest risk of heavy snowfall is forecast for the eastern part of the Iberian Peninsula. On Monday, January 5, orange alerts have been issued in Aragón, Cantabria, Cataluña, and Comunidad Valenciana. In some areas, snow depths may exceed 5 centimeters, especially in the mountains and highlands.
Models Diverge
Meteorologists are closely monitoring the forecasts of two leading models—the European (ECMWF) and the American (GFS). The former predicts moderate snowfall not exceeding 5 centimeters in most areas. The latter paints a more dramatic picture: in Andalucía, Murcia, and eastern Castilla-La Mancha, drifts could reach up to 30 centimeters in some spots.
Historically, the European model tends to be more accurate, but Spaniards remember how Madrid was paralyzed in 2021 by an unexpectedly heavy snowfall. That’s why forecasts are treated with caution—and possible challenges with readiness.
A Holiday Under Snow
This year, the Kings might arrive in Madrid as snowflakes fall. For children, it would be a true miracle; for city services, a serious challenge. City authorities are already preparing snow removal equipment and are urging residents to be extra careful on the roads.
Snow in Madrid is rare but always memorable. This time, it may become not just a festive decoration but also cause temporary inconveniences. However, despite any challenges, the anticipation of a winter fairytale makes the city’s atmosphere special. Spaniards are ready to welcome the Kings—even if it means doing so in warm scarves and gloves.
