Weather in Spain has changed dramatically after cyclone Claudia left the country. The mild January temperatures have been replaced by real winter chills. Since the start of the week, thermometers in the northern and central regions haven’t risen above 10 degrees, and at night, temperatures drop well below zero. Residents in many provinces are waking up to conditions more reminiscent of a harsh February than a typical Spanish winter.
This sharp cold snap is due to an Arctic air mass that has swept across almost the entire Iberian part of the country. Each day, the cold intensifies: by midweek, nighttime frosts will reach not only the mountain areas but also extend to the plains. In some cities, such as Soria and Teruel, nighttime temperatures could drop as low as minus five degrees. Even Madrid and Tarragona are expected to see unusually low minimums for these areas.
Meteorologists warn that by the end of the week the cold will become even more intense. In the northern and central provinces, daytime temperatures will barely exceed five degrees, with potentially record-breaking lows for January at night. In cities like Burgos, León, Pamplona, Vitoria, and Cuenca, highs may not even reach zero. Meanwhile, in the south, in Andalucía and Murcia, the weather will remain relatively mild, though nights there will also become noticeably colder.
Snow and precipitation: a test for northern regions
While the southern regions are experiencing only light frosts, the north and east of Spain are bracing for real snowfall. From midweek onward, snow is expected not only in the mountains but also on the plains. In Cataluña, Islas Baleares, and Cantabria, heavy rains and sleet are possible. In some areas, the snow level may drop to 500–800 meters above sea level, which could cause temporary transport disruptions and difficult road conditions.
Particular attention is being paid to coastal areas: Asturias, Cádiz, Sevilla, Girona, as well as Mallorca and Menorca, have been placed on yellow weather alert. These regions are expecting strong winds, with gusts up to 60 km/h, and high waves. In some places, up to 20 liters of precipitation per square meter may fall within an hour.
Warmer weather is on the way
Despite the harsh conditions, meteorologists promise that the situation will start to change by the end of the week. On Saturday morning, the frosts will persist, but by Sunday, warmer air will begin to reach the country. Temperatures will gradually return to typical January levels, with snow and ice giving way to rain and clouds. However, until then, residents of the northern and central regions will have to endure a few more truly wintry days.
