Residents of Spain are facing unexpectedly harsh weather conditions: in most of the country, temperatures are not rising above 10 degrees, and morning frosts have become the norm—even in regions that usually enjoy mild climates at this time of year. The only exceptions are the southwestern areas and coastal zones, where the air is slightly warmer, though a sharp cold snap is also being felt there.
The situation is compounded by an Arctic front that has brought not only cold temperatures but also snowfall to the country. By Wednesday evening, northern regions were already blanketed in dense snow, and by Thursday and Friday, snow is forecast across almost the entire territory, including the Balearic Islands (Islas Baleares). Particularly severe frosts are being recorded in the mountain areas of the Pyrenees (Pirineos), where nighttime temperatures are plummeting to extreme lows and the snow cover is deepening by the hour.
Snow and wind put infrastructure to the test
In the coming days, meteorologists predict further temperature drops and stronger winds, which could cause snowdrifts and complicate road travel. The country’s interior, especially the northern part of the Meseta (Meseta Norte), Navarra (Navarra), and the Basque Country (País Vasco), is bracing for a serious challenge: snow may fall even in low-lying areas, and some stretches of roadway already have vehicle restrictions in place.
Up to 20 centimeters of snow may fall in the Cantabrian Mountains (Cordillera Cantábrica) within a single day. In other mountain ranges of northern Spain, precipitation will be less intense, but still enough to cause problems for locals and tourists. Snowfall will continue on Friday, especially in the northern and eastern regions, as well as in the Central and Iberian mountain systems.
Winds and storms: the sea is not far behind
In addition to snow, residents of the northeast and Balearic Islands can expect strong gusts of wind, potentially reaching storm force. Blizzards are forecast in the Pyrenees, while stormy seas are expected along the Balearic coast (Mar Balear) and in the Ampurdán (Ampurdán) area. This creates additional risks for marine transport and coastal communities.
By the weekend, the situation is expected to change: temperatures will gradually rise and the snow level will increase. However, until then, locals and visitors alike should be especially cautious—weather conditions can change abruptly, and roads may become hazardous even for experienced drivers.
What’s next: caution and waiting for a warm-up
Meteorologists recommend staying alert: although a gradual warming is forecast by Saturday, cold temps and snow will persist in the mountains. In the lowlands and plains, abnormal weather will gradually subside, but until then, Spain will remain on winter alert. In the coming days, it’s important to monitor the forecasts and be ready for any surprises from nature.
