The unusual cold front is expected to bring snow to a wide range of areas. Photo Credit: Pablo Peu/Shutterstock
Spain is preparing for a sharp turn to winter weather as a polar air mass moves across the country, bringing a significant drop in temperatures and lowering snow levels dramatically. Spains national weather agency (AEMET) warns that the coming days could see snowfall at unusually low altitudes, with potential impacts for travel, transport, and daily routines across several regions.
Forecasters predict that the approaching cold air will cause the snow level, known locally as “cota de nieve”, to drop to around 500 metres in some northern and north-western areas, creating the possibility of snow in valleys and elevated plains, far below the usual mountain zones. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain below normal for this time of year, with icy conditions possible on roads and exposed surfaces.
Where Snow Could Fall and Why It Matters
Low snow levels extend beyond the mountains
The unusual cold front is expected to bring snow to a wide range of areas, not just traditional winter hotspots. In northern Spain, including Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and the Basque Country, snow may reach lower elevations than usual, particularly in valleys and hilly areas. In the central plateau and interior regions, such as Castilla y León, Navarra, and La Rioja, flurries and icy conditions could appear across rural landscapes and high plains.
The Madrid region may also experience snow, with elevated parts of the city and surrounding areas at risk as snow levels dip. In the Pyrenees, snowfall is likely at various altitudes, with some valleys possibly seeing snow at lower levels. Meanwhile, Catalonia, Aragón, and Castilla La Mancha may experience snow on higher ground and moderate elevations as cold air interacts with moist weather fronts from the Atlantic.
Across southern and Mediterranean regions, snow levels are forecast to remain higher, around 1,300 to 1,500 metres, though mountain slopes could still see significant accumulation. Overall, the combination of low snow levels and falling temperatures will create conditions rarely seen at this time of year.
Provinces and Areas Most at Risk
Broad swathes of Spain could see snow or icy conditions
Several provinces are likely to be affected by snowfall or icy surfaces over the coming days:
- Northern Spain: Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and the Basque Country could see snow in elevated valleys and low hills.
- Interior plateau: Castilla y León, Navarra, and La Rioja may experience snow flurries and icy conditions across rural and elevated areas.
- Madrid and surrounding areas: Snow is possible in elevated parts of the capital and nearby hills.
- Pyrenees and Catalonia: Snow is expected across mountain ranges and some lower valleys.
- Aragón and Castilla‑La Mancha: Higher elevations and moderate altitudes may see snow accumulation.
While the heaviest snow is likely to fall in mountains, the unusually low snow line means some lower inland areas could see flakes, a rare occurrence for this time of year.
Travel, Safety, and What to Expect Next
Precautions recommended as conditions evolve
Authorities advise residents and travellers to remain cautious as the polar air mass moves through. Road conditions could deteriorate, particularly in mountainous or rural areas where snow and ice may accumulate. Drivers are urged to monitor forecasts and prepare vehicles for winter conditions, including appropriate tyres and chains where necessary.
Meteorologists emphasise that the situation remains fluid. Although forecasts predict a notable cold snap and widespread snow, the exact location and intensity of snowfall may shift as the air mass moves and interacts with regional weather patterns. Residents in affected areas should remain alert to changing conditions and follow safety guidance. This weekend marks one of the first major winter episodes of the season, bringing low temperatures, falling snow levels, and the possibility of snow outside typical mountain zones. The event serves as a reminder that winter is arriving early across much of Spain, with conditions likely to persist for several days before moderating