Civil Protection agencies issue warnings for maritime storms, strong winds, and heavy rain and snow across Spain
Spain is on alert for extreme weather, a red level warning has been activated for coastal phenomena in Galicia on Friday, February 23 with waves up to 9 meters high.
Extensive areas of Spain will be affected by extreme weather. Strong winds on land, with gusts reaching 90 km/h are forecast by Aemet. A sharp drop in temperatures is also anticipated along with snowfall in mountainous regions.
The Directorate General of Civil Protection and Emergencies of the Ministry of the Interior, in line with forecasts from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), issued alerts for maritime storms, strong wind gusts, and rain and snow in the upcoming days. However, the unpredictable nature of these phenomena underscores the importance of staying informed about meteorological changes.
Very strong gusts are expected in exposed coastal and mountainous areas, extending throughout Thursday across the northern, central, and eastern halves of the Peninsula, as well as the Alboran coasts, with a sharp shift to west and northwest in the Cantabrian region.
Rainfall will spread from northwest to southeast on Thursday with the front’s passage, intensifying in the west of Galicia and less likely in the Mediterranean area. The snow line will drop to 800-1000 m in the northwest by day’s end, leading to a temperature decrease except in the Mediterranean area. Showers are forecasted in the northwest by late hours.
On Friday, remnants of the front may bring precipitation to the eastern third of the peninsula and the Balearic Islands. Showers will spread from the northwest across the Peninsula, lessening towards the south and east, and intensifying in Galicia and the Cantabrian area. The snow line will be at 700-900 m in the northern half and 1000-1200 m elsewhere, resulting in widespread snowfall, particularly in mountainous regions. Temperatures will significantly drop, with strong gusts and very strong winds expected across the peninsula and the Alboran Sea coasts.
Saturday will see continued humid and unstable flow from the northwest, with frequent showers in Galicia and the Cantabrian area, lessening towards the Mediterranean area. The snow line will be similar to Friday. From Saturday afternoon into Sunday, a warmer and wetter Atlantic air mass may bring persistent precipitation to Galicia and the Cantabrian area, gradually raising the snow line to 1500-1800 m by Sunday afternoon.
Recommendations for protection from coastal winds:
- Stay away from beaches and low-lying areas prone to high tides and waves.
- Avoid parking vehicles in wave-affected zones.
- Do not risk life for capturing images of strong waves.
What to do if you encounter strong winds:
- Secure doors, windows, and objects prone to falling.
- Refrain from climbing scaffolds without appropriate safety measures.
- Drive cautiously, especially in tunnels and overtaking heavy vehicles.
Be careful driving in snow:
- Be attentive while driving, especially on icy patches.
- Stay informed about weather and road conditions.
- Carry winter tires or chains and warm clothing.
Recommendations for driving in heavy rain:
- Reduce speed while driving and avoid flooded areas.
- Park vehicles away from flood-prone zones.
- Avoid crossing flooded stretches, and head to higher ground if in rural areas.
Read more here about the weather in Spain:
