Six Spanish regions are on AEMET alert for storm warnings and hail as temperatures drop

Prepare for a weather change: Thunderstorms will replace the summer heat

Mother Nature had a surprise in store for the first week of this month. The Spanish summer is well underway, but Mother Nature will be bringing a new twist to proceedings. According to the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), a major shift is underway as an Atlantic trough sweeps across the peninsula, sending the heat packing, at least for now—and ushering in stormy skies, strong winds, and even hail. It’s time to dust off your umbrella and check the weather apps if you live or travel north of Madrid.

Who is in the firing lines? Six communities on the storm watch

Six northern communities are now on official alert for heavy rainfall and potentially fierce thunderstorms: Aragón, both Castillas, Navarra, the Basque Country and La Rioja. Particularly in La Rioja and parts of Castilla y León, the orange alert is flying—meaning significant risk—due to the likelihood of hail, severe showers and gusty winds.
The AEMET orange alert in La Rioja warns of severe storms, hail and possible rainfalls of 15 litres an hour in certain zones.
Castilla y León is also bracing for the impact, with Burgos and Soria under orange alert for hail and heavy downpours, and yellow warnings (risk) for rain issued in Ávila, Palencia, Segovia and Valladolid.

Meanwhile, it’s a yellow alert (moderate risk) in Aragón, Navarra, the Basque Country, and the provinces of Cuenca and Guadalajara. The areas in question could receive between 15 and twenty litres per hour of rain, so drivers should be on alert for sudden weather changes or flash floods.

Heatwave in Spain: cooler days ahead but summer sun will return soon

AEMET’s forecast signals a noticeable drop in temperatures across much of the country from Monday, with some areas seeing a dip of up to 6 to 8°C compared to Sunday. The north and southwest are expected to experience the most dramatic cooling.
But don’t get too comfortable—temperatures will remain high in the Ebro Valley (expect over 33°C) and parts of the centre and south, where 34°C is still possible.

Elsewhere, the mercury will hover between 20 and 25°C, providing a welcome respite. By Wednesday, the south interior—Extremadura, Castilla-La Mancha, Andalucía, the inland Comunidad Valenciana, Murcia, and Aragón and Catalonia’s valleys—should settle around 30°C. As with all Spanish summers, this is only a temporary respite.

Unpredictable weather in Spain: First storms then heat waves

You shouldn’t expect a long-lasting break from the heat. AEMET warns after this midweek respite, a new ridge high pressure will sweep in on Thursday, pushing temperatures back up.
By the weekend, most of Spain will be flirting with or exceeding 35°C once more, especially in the Ebro basin, Mediterranean inland, and Mallorca. The brief rainy spell is set to give way to another wave of intense summer heat—classic Spanish weather whiplash.

Top tips to stay safe and sane in stormy weather

• Watch for alerts. Follow the latest information from AEMET as well as your local authorities. Storms in Spain can escalate quickly.
• Driving? Plan ahead: Sudden downpours, storms and hail can cause roads to be hazardous. Allow extra time and plan accordingly.
• Prepare for any weather. One day, you may need a suncream and water, while the next might require a brolly. Be prepared for sudden changes.
• Bring in all outdoor gear that could be damaged by strong winds or hail.

Spanish weather can be unpredictable, from heatwaves to storms. This week’s weather forecast serves as a reminder to be flexible, informed and enjoy the unpredictable nature of a Mediterranean summer. Whether you’re planning a holiday or just your daily commute, keep your plans—and your packing, adaptable.

Keep cool and safe.