January in Spain brought an unusually icy chill. The holidays were dominated by talk of the weather, and for good reason: the cold snap reached even those regions where winters are usually milder. This was especially felt during Christmas and on Three Kings’ Day (Día de Reyes), when temperatures dropped well below the seasonal norm. In some areas, it was 5–8 degrees Celsius colder than the average for this time of year, and the biting wind only intensified the feeling of cold.
But it seems there’s hope on the horizon for those tired of freezing. Renowned Spanish meteorologist Mario Picazo has announced that the situation will start to change by the end of the week. While January isn’t giving up just yet, temperatures are expected to gradually climb. It doesn’t mean spring is here, but even a slight warmup will be a relief for the most cold-sensitive residents.
Frosts and weather warnings
For now, Spain remains under a weather alert. On Wednesday, January 7, 14 autonomous communities found themselves under various warnings at once. In some areas, meteorologists recorded extreme figures: in Girona and Huesca nighttime temperatures fell to -6°C, in Ávila and Cuenca to -5°C, and in Parameras de Molina (Guadalajara) the thermometer plummeted to -14°C. Here, a red alert was issued for an ‘exceptional threat.’
Yellow snow warnings were in effect in Huesca, Zaragoza, León, Zamora, Lleida, central Navarra, and Álava. Strong winds also kept residents on alert, with gusts felt in Huesca, Girona, Lleida, and across the Canary Islands—including Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and Tenerife.
Storm Goretti and Its Consequences
But the weather surprises don’t end there. Between January 8 and 9, a storm named Goretti will form over Europe. Its development will feature what meteorologists call ‘explosive cyclogenesis’—a process that involves a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure at the cyclone’s center and a sharp intensification of the system itself. A severe storm is expected in Western Europe, while Spain is forecast to experience milder effects.
Nevertheless, northern regions of the country will feel the impact of this weather event. Stronger winds, rainfall, and coastal storms are expected. Residents of coastal areas should be particularly cautious, as the sea may bring unwelcome surprises. Despite its ominous name, ‘explosive cyclogenesis’ doesn’t mean anything will actually explode—it’s simply a meteorological term that sounds alarming but refers to a rapid strengthening of a cyclone.
Weather Details
In the coming days, temperature swings will continue. In some regions, the cold will persist, while in others, a gradual warming will begin. Residents of inland areas will have the hardest time, as nighttime temperatures will remain below zero. Meanwhile, conditions along the coast and on the islands will be milder, although wind and precipitation are still expected there as well.
Meteorologists note that this January has been unusually cold, and even a slight increase in temperature is seen as a long-awaited relief. But it’s too early to relax: several more weeks of winter lie ahead, and the weather may still bring new surprises. However, in Spain, such weather fluctuations are nothing new, and locals have long learned to adapt to them.
A look at the changes
Personally, I believe this winter in Spain is one of the most memorable in recent years. Harsh frosts, unexpected snowfalls, and storms have forced many to reconsider their plans and take a fresh look at the usual winter routine. No matter how the weather changes, Spaniards remain true to themselves: discussing forecasts, sharing their impressions, and eagerly waiting for the sun to warm the streets of towns and villages once again.
Even a small warm spell is a chance to catch your breath and rediscover the joy of being outdoors. For now, scarves, gloves, and hot chocolate remain the best friends of everyone not ready to give in to January’s whims.
