In the coming days, Spain and Portugal will be hit by the powerful cyclone Ingrid, which has already been classified as one of the most dangerous storms of the season. The weather front will bring not only gale-force winds and heavy downpours, but also snow at unusually low altitudes — in some areas, snow will settle from just 300 meters above sea level. For many regions, this will be a real test: roads could be blocked and daily routines disrupted.
Meteorologists warn that, starting Friday, weather conditions will deteriorate rapidly. In the center and north of the peninsula, temperatures will plummet, and snow will blanket not only mountainous areas but also lowlands. On Saturday, daytime highs in most cities will not exceed 10°C, and in some areas may not even reach 5°C. The mountains are expected to see freezing temperatures around the clock, creating further challenges for public services and drivers.
Storm onslaught
Special attention should be paid to the northern coast. Here, storm Ingrid will unleash its full force: in Galicia and along the Cantabrian coast, wave heights will exceed seven meters, while near A Coruña some nighttime waves could reach nine meters. Authorities have already declared a red alert and strongly advise people to stay well away from the shoreline. The wind is expected to rip off roofs, uproot trees, and pose a danger to anything in its path.
The situation inside the country is equally tense. Strong gusts of wind and heavy rain will sweep across almost the entire territory, with the west of Galicia, Cádiz, and the mountain regions of Andalucía being hit the hardest. In some areas, a month’s worth of rain is expected to fall in a single day, and roads could turn into icy traps. Drivers are advised not to take risks and to check road conditions in advance.
Snow threat
This year’s snowfalls will surprise even seasoned residents of the northern and central regions. Starting Friday in Galicia, snow will fall from altitudes of 500 meters, and in other areas of the northern half of the country—from 600 to 800 meters. On Saturday, conditions will become even more extreme: in some places, snow will settle from as low as 300 meters. This means that even small towns and villages unaccustomed to such weather will find themselves snowed in.
In the center of the country, including Castilla y León, Segovia, Soria, and Burgos, daytime temperatures will barely reach 2–4 degrees. Both drivers and pedestrians are urged to be especially cautious: icy roads and snow drifts may cause accidents and transportation delays. Authorities warn of possible disruptions in public transport and the closure of some roads.
Temperature contrasts
While the north and center of Spain will face cold and snow, the south and coastal areas will experience somewhat milder conditions. In Andalucía, Alicante, Murcia, and Málaga, daytime temperatures will rise to 16–19°C, and in the Canary Islands up to 22°C. However, even here, a cold spell is expected over the weekend, with brief snowfalls possible in the mountains.
The eastern coast and the Balearic Islands will also be affected: heavy rain and gusty winds are expected here, especially on Thursday and Friday. Some areas of the Balearics may see brief downpours and even thunderstorms. Temperatures will fluctuate, but overall will remain higher than in the central and northern regions.
Hazards on the roads
As Ingrid approaches, road conditions are becoming increasingly difficult. Snow and ice could paralyze traffic on key highways, especially in mountainous areas and at mountain passes. Drivers are advised to plan routes in advance and monitor updates from road authorities. Restrictions have already been introduced for trucks and buses in some regions.
In cities, municipal services are preparing for round-the-clock work: clearing snow, treating roads with de-icing agents, and responding to fallen trees and downed power lines. Authorities urge residents to stay home unless absolutely necessary and be prepared for possible power outages and disruptions to transport.
Canary Islands and the weekly forecast
The weather in the Canary Islands will remain relatively calm, although cloudy skies and light rain are expected in the northern areas. Temperatures here will stay almost the same: 15-17 degrees at night and up to 22 during the day. A slight drop in temperature is possible on Saturday, but no severe weather disturbances are forecast.
At the start of next week, meteorologists expect new Atlantic fronts that will bring precipitation to the western regions of the peninsula. Meanwhile, in the east and Mediterranean areas, rainfall will be less intense. Temperatures will begin to rise gradually, but night frost will persist in the northern and central regions.
Storm Ingrid is already causing concern among residents and authorities. Spain and Portugal are preparing for a true test by the elements, and only time will tell how serious the consequences of this natural event will be.
