After an unusually mild and spring-like start to the week, Spain is now facing a marked change in the weather. A band of cold air and cloud moving in from the Atlantic is set to bring cooler temperatures, rainfall and Saharan dust (calima), bringing the brief taste of spring to an end for the time being. At the same time, another DANA – an isolated upper-level low-pressure system – is expected to develop at the beginning of the week, potentially increasing further instability.
Spain Press Editorial Team
by Marlon Gallego Bosbach
Sharp Temperature Drop at the Weekend
Spain is gradually saying goodbye to the above-average mild temperatures of recent days. Meteorological models indicate that an Atlantic frontal system approaching from the north-west will reach the peninsula, ushering in noticeably cooler air masses. Maximum daytime temperatures are set to fall significantly on Saturday, particularly in the north-west and inland areas. In many regions, highs will reach only between 10 and 15°C — considerably lower than the values recorded just a few days ago.
This shift is not unusual for the end of February, but it marks the end of the brief spring-like interlude experienced by many regions of Spain during the week.
Showers and Rainfall – Especially in the North and East
As the cooler air advances, the likelihood of rain showers and local downpours also increases — particularly in northern and north-eastern Spain. Regions such as Galicia, Cantabria, the Ebro Valley, and parts of Catalonia can expect partly heavier cloud cover and scattered rain, especially on Saturday and Sunday.
Meteorologists expect this weather pattern to continue over the course of the weekend before temperatures may eventually stabilise again.
Calima: Saharan Dust in the Air
Another fascinating, yet challenging, aspect of the current weather situation is the calima, caused by Saharan dust. This weather phenomenon occurs when dry winds from the Sahara carry large amounts of fine sand and dust particles across the Mediterranean and over mainland Spain.
Calima visibly alters the sky: the atmosphere becomes hazy, the sun often appears milky or dim, and a dusty, dry layer of air can spread over large parts of Spain. The south-east, the Balearic Islands, Ceuta, Melilla, and the Canary Islands are often particularly affected.
Health Advisory: Saharan dust can reduce air quality and irritate the respiratory system—particularly for people with asthma, chronic respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children. AEMET and health experts recommend limiting outdoor activities, keeping windows closed, and wearing protective masks if necessary.
Impending New DANA
Meteorological models indicate that a new DANA could develop in the week following the weekend. This isolated upper-level low-pressure system could bring further weather instability. Such systems can cause additional rainfall, thunderstorms, and significant temperature fluctuations before eventually shifting or dissipating.
A renewed DANA would continue the unstable weather over Spain — for the first time since the current shift — and could bring heavy rainfall, particularly in the inland regions and the south-west.
Unsettled Weather Instead of Spring
Spain must prepare for a dynamic weather situation over the coming days, with several elements coming together:
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Temperature Drop Following the Brief Mild Spring Spell
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Rainfall and Showers, Especially in the North and East
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Calima with Saharan Dust Across Large Parts of the Country
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Possible New DANA from the Beginning of the Week
This combination makes the coming days meteorologically eventful and challenges both the weather services and the public to adapt flexibly to changing conditions.
