Storm Emilia Unleashes Winter Weather on Spain, Bringing Heavy Rains and Snow

The stable weather experienced in recent days in Spain is expected to come to an abrupt end. December, which started off with unseasonably mild temperatures across much of the country, is about to witness a drastic shift as meteorologists issue a warning for storm Emilia. This storm is set to hit the country over the weekend, bringing heavy rains, strong winds, and a return of snow at higher elevations. According to the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), the arrival of colder and wetter air from the Atlantic will soon correct the thermal anomaly that has allowed some regions to reach temperatures close to 20 degrees Celsius this month. The upcoming changes will be particularly striking in areas accustomed to a more gradual transition between seasons. Storm Emilia is expected to pool in the southwest of the Peninsula, leading to widespread sky conditions marked by instability. The areas most influenced by the storm include the Canaries, southern regions of the Peninsula, and the Mediterranean coast, while cloud cover will dominate the weather throughout much of the country. However, the northern regions may see a clearer sky, with the exception of some Mediterranean areas. Rain will be one of the key weather features associated with storm Emilia. Significant precipitation is forecasted for the Canaries, the Balearic Islands, southern Andalusia, Ceuta, Melilla, and most of the eastern part of the Peninsula, particularly affecting Cádiz, Ceuta, and mountainous zones in northern Canary Islands. In these regions, AEMET warns that local accumulations could exceed 100 liters and may be accompanied by thunderstorms. Snow will reappear in the weather forecast, with the snow line predicted to reach elevations between 1700 and 2000 meters in the Canaries. There might be occasional drops to 1400 meters with considerable accumulations at higher summits. In the Peninsula, light frosts are expected in mountainous regions of the north, contrasting sharply with the previously mild temperatures. Winds are another element to keep an eye on, with strong north winds anticipated to blow across the Canaries. Meanwhile, in the Strait and Alboran Sea, intense easterly winds may be felt. Maximum temperatures are likely to experience a temporary rise in the western Peninsula, but will see a significant drop in the Canaries while minimum temperatures are expected to fall in the Cantabrian region and northwest areas. Given this forecast, meteorological services are urging the public to stay updated on alerts and to practice extreme caution in areas identified as high-risk. As the weekend approaches, Spaniards can expect a changeable weather pattern that serves as a reminder that winter is indeed just around the corner. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2