A new trough will bring unstable weather to much of Spain this weekend. Authorities warn of intense storms, hail, and heavy rainfall, especially in the northeast. Weather alerts are active in several regions.
Spain faces a significant weather shift this weekend as a pronounced trough approaches from the northwest, bringing widespread instability and a marked drop in temperatures. From Friday, meteorological services have issued warnings for strong storms, hail, and heavy downpours, with the most severe conditions expected in the northeast and central parts of the country.
The first signs of this change will be felt as early as Thursday, with increased cloud formation and isolated showers developing in the eastern third of the peninsula, as well as in central and southern areas. By Friday, the situation is forecast to deteriorate further. Rain is expected to intensify in northern Galicia, Asturias, and northern León, while storm cells will begin forming around midday across central Spain and the eastern interior.
Regions under yellow weather alerts include Asturias, Cantabria, Castilla y León, La Rioja, Navarra, Aragón, Catalonia, Castilla-La Mancha, the Valencian Community, Murcia, and eastern Andalusia. In these areas, authorities anticipate rainfall rates exceeding 15-25 mm per hour, accompanied by hail and strong gusts of wind. Madrid may also experience storm activity, particularly near the Central System mountains.
Saturday is set to be the most challenging day, with persistent rain in the Cantabrian regions from the morning and the first storms developing in the Pyrenees and the Iberian System. As the day progresses, showers and thunderstorms will spread to the east of Castilla y León, La Rioja, Navarra, Aragón, Catalonia, the Valencian Community, eastern Castilla-La Mancha, Murcia, and eastern Andalusia. The most intense storms are forecast for northern Catalonia and Aragón, where significant accumulations and hail are likely.
On Sunday, the unsettled weather will continue, particularly in northern Galicia and the Cantabrian coast, though rainfall is expected to ease by the afternoon. However, central hours of the day may still see renewed storm activity in the eastern third of the peninsula, affecting Navarra, La Rioja, Aragón, Catalonia, the Valencian Community, eastern Castilla-La Mancha, Murcia, and eastern Andalusia. The Balearic Islands could also see isolated storms.
Recent weather events have already highlighted the risks associated with severe storms in Spain. For example, a recent episode in southern Valencia brought record winds and torrential rain, causing widespread disruption and emergency responses. The current forecast underscores the need for residents in affected regions to remain alert and follow official guidance as the weekend approaches.
Spain's varied geography often leads to sharp contrasts in weather, with mountainous regions and coastal areas experiencing rapid changes. The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) regularly updates alerts and recommendations, especially during periods of heightened risk. Residents are advised to monitor local forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours, and secure outdoor objects that could be affected by strong winds or hail. The upcoming weekend serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness during the spring storm season, when atmospheric instability can quickly escalate into hazardous conditions.
