Spain’s State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued a series of weather alerts as an unstable weather system moves across the country, threatening to disrupt Holy Week (Semana Santa) celebrations. Millions of travelers and locals preparing for Easter processions, beach trips, or mountain getaways will instead face heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, and even snow in higher areas.

Widespread Rain and Storms Disrupt Holiday Plans

The forecast shows a prolonged period of wet and windy weather, with multiple storms rolling in from the Atlantic. Instead of the mild spring conditions usually expected in April, much of Spain will experience below-average temperatures and frequent downpours. The worst-affected regions include Galicia, the Balearic Islands, and northeastern Spain, where thunderstorms could bring localized flooding and damaging wind gusts.

In the north, snow is expected in the Pyrenees and the Cantabrian Mountains, with levels dropping as low as 1,200 meters in some areas, unusually low for mid-April. Meanwhile, coastal regions like Galicia and the Cantabrian coast will face strong winds and rough seas, potentially affecting ferry services and outdoor events.

14/04 18:01 #AEMET #FMA nivel naranja por costeros y/o tormentas y/o lluvias para hoy en Asturias y Aragón . Imagen en vigor a las 18:01 (tabla actualizada haciendo CLIC EN LA IMAGEN), o visite https://t.co/aIJV7DDYto https://t.co/9FFtktGRap

— AEMET (@AEMET_Esp) April 14, 2025

Sharp Temperature Drop Mid-Week

A cold polar air mass will sweep across Spain on Tuesday (April 15) and Wednesday (April 16), causing a sudden drop in temperatures, especially in the northwest. Some inland areas could see daytime highs 5-8°C lower than usual for this time of year, making it feel more like winter than spring.

Winds will also pick up, with gusts reaching 70-80 km/h (43-50 mph) along the Galician and Cantabrian coasts, as well as near the Strait of Gibraltar. These conditions could lead to travel delays, fallen tree branches, and power outages in exposed areas.

Some parts of Spain have already experienced hail on Monday April 14.

🧊 En la tarde de este lunes ha caído granizo en el municipio de Lorca

📍 Centro Comercial del Parque Almenara

📹 @pantanodepuente #Lluvia | #Lorca pic.twitter.com/U2PKjPTXWe

— La 7 (@la7tele) April 14, 2025

Brief Break on Thursday Before More Rain Returns

The only slight improvement is expected on Holy Thursday (April 17), when rainfall should ease in most regions except Galicia and the Cantabrian coast. However, this break will be short-lived, as another strong storm system is forecast to arrive by Good Friday (April 18), bringing more persistent rain to western and northern Spain.

The weekend outlook remains uncertain, but AEMET advises that there will be continued showers and cooler temperatures in the north, while the south may see drier but still unsettled conditions.

Travel Advice for Easter Week

With Semana Santa being one of Spain’s busiest travel periods, authorities are urging people to check weather updates regularly and prepare for possible disruptions. Road conditions could be hazardous due to rain-slicked roads and reduced visibility, while flights and ferries may face delays if winds intensify.

Those planning outdoor events, hikes, or beach trips should pack warm, waterproof clothing and have backup plans in case of sudden storms. Mountain travelers, especially in the Pyrenees and Picos de Europa, should be aware of snowfall and icy roads at higher elevations.

A Wet and Windy Easter Ahead

This year’s Semana Santa will be far from the sunny, mild holiday many had hoped for. Instead, Spain faces a prolonged stretch of unsettled weather, with rain, storms, and even hail and snow affecting much of the country. While Thursday may offer a brief dry spell, the overall trend suggests more rain and cool temperatures.

Stay updated on the latest forecasts from AEMET and adjust plans accordingly to stay safe during what looks to be a very wet Easter week in Spain.

Image: Shutterstock/trendobjects