Spain is set for a marked change in the weather this week, already bringing early summer-like conditions to many areas. Following a period of unsettled weather, a significant rise in temperatures is on the way: by the coming weekend, values could climb to as much as 30°C in some regions – unusually high for April.
Spain Expat Press Editorial Team
by Marlon Gallego Bosbach
Unsettled start due to low-pressure influence
At the beginning of the week, a so-called “vaguada” – an upper-level trough of low pressure – continues to bring unsettled weather. Particularly in the north and parts of the Mediterranean region, cloud cover, isolated showers, and a noticeable drop in temperatures are expected. This setup is drawing in cooler air masses from the Atlantic, initially resulting in generally unstable conditions.
Meteorologists describe this as a typical spring situation, in which warm and cold air masses alternate rapidly – although in this case the dynamics are particularly pronounced.
Subtropical air brings a significant rise in temperatures
By midweek, however, a fundamental shift takes place: warm air from subtropical regions, partly originating in North Africa, spreads across the Iberian Peninsula. This leads to a rapid stabilisation of the atmosphere and causes temperatures to rise significantly.
From the weekend onwards, daytime highs of between 25 and 30°C are expected across many parts of the country, with even higher values possible locally. Particularly noteworthy: even in northern Spain, where such temperatures are relatively rare in spring, it could become unusually warm.
Temperatures significantly above average
The forecast values are clearly above the usual average temperatures for April. In some regions, readings are more in line with levels typically expected in May or even early summer.
Experts see this as no isolated event. Rather, such weather patterns fit into a broader trend in which warm air intrusions from Africa are becoming increasingly frequent, bringing high temperatures even outside the traditional summer months.
Brief rainy phase – then sunshine and stability
Before the arrival of the warm air, rainfall may occur once again, mainly due to Atlantic fronts affecting the west and north in particular. However, this phase is expected to be short-lived.
Afterwards, calm and sunny weather will increasingly dominate, with only a few clouds. In some regions, the occurrence of “calima” is also possible – fine Saharan dust in the air that can slightly haze the sky.
Spring with a summer-like feel
Overall, Spain is showing its contrasting side in these days: first unsettled and at times cool, then significantly warmer and more stable within just a few days. The upcoming rise in temperatures could provide many places with the first real taste of summer.
For the public, this mainly means one thing: light clothing, busy terraces – and an unusually early start to the warm season.
