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Today, sudden downpours or storms linked to the new DANA system may cause flooding in some areas of Spain
Credit: Shutterstock/Michiko Chiba
Forecasters have warned that a new weather pattern is about to hit Spain. The DANA system, which is developing, will bring severe storms, possibly hail, and strong wind gusts in multiple regions. This new alert is not as short-lived and driven by an unstable mass of air, which increases the likelihood of sudden downpours or local disruption.
According to AEMET, Spain’s official weather authorityThe system will affect the inland and east parts of the nation, where the combination of rising temperatures and atmospheric instabilities creates volatile storm conditions. The agency has identified seven zones where the weather could become severe in the next few hours.
Predicción semanal:
Hoy: por la tarde en el nordeste peninsular chubascos con tormentas y rachas de viento fuertes.
Martes: en el norte peninsular, chubascos acompañados de tormenta y rachas de viento fuertes. Calima en el oeste peninsular.
Miércoles: predominio de sol.
[1/2] pic.twitter.com/Obt2kMEvoR— AEMET (@AEMET_Esp) April 20, 2026
Today, which areas are at greatest risk?
Storm cells will develop quickly in the afternoon and evening, especially in the areas of the east, northeast and centre. Castilla La Mancha and Madrid are the most likely areas to experience strong activity. Aragon, Catalonia, Catalonia inland, and Valencia’s interior will also be affected.
The storms could bring intense rains, with wind gusts and hail that may exceed the typical spring conditions. The coastal zone may experience more scattered activity while the inland area is expected to have the most instability.
This DANA alert is different than recent alerts
This event, which has been causing several storm warnings across Spain in the last few weeks, is driven by a DANA. A DANA is a low-pressure system at high altitude that can increase atmospheric instability. This makes it harder to predict conditions and increases the risk of localized weather extremes.
A DANA, unlike a broader front of weather that moves steadily across the nation, can stay relatively stationary and intensify storms over a short time in a specific area. Authorities warn of rapid changes in conditions, rather than prolonged rain.
What this means to travel and everyday life
The intensity of the storm is more important to residents and travelers than its duration. Sudden downpours may cause localised flooding especially in urban areas that have poor drainage. Strong wind gusts can also affect road travel, especially on higher ground and open routes.
There is less chance of widespread disruptions to air travel, but it cannot be ruled that there will be isolated delays if storms intensify around major airports. It is advised that drivers remain cautious, especially in the afternoon.
What to watch this week
The weather is expected to change rapidly throughout the day. The highest risk window usually develops from mid-afternoon. Authorities advise to stay updated via official channels and be prepared for sudden change, especially in highlighted regions.
Even though the system will not affect the whole country, the unpredictable nature of the system could cause brief but intense weather episodes to occur in areas outside the main zones. Visit our Spain Weather page for the latest updates.
