Travel warnings as Storm Ingrid hits northern Spain and parts of Andalucía

Spain’s State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued red alerts for parts of Galicia and widespread warnings across much of the country as Storm Ingrid continues to bring heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous sea conditions. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel.

Galicia’s Atlantic coast, including A Coruña and Pontevedra, is under a red alert for maritime hazards, with waves forecast to reach around nine metres and strong gusts along the coastline. Inland, snow levels have dropped to elevations as low as 300–500 metres, increasing the risk of icy roads and travel disruption across northern and central regions. Officials have warned that the worst is yet to come, with the next few days expected to be particularly challenging for motorists and communities.

Roads Affected by Snow and Ice

The storm has caused major transport disruptions, with the DGT reporting 98 affected roads as of Friday evening. Of these, 16 are part of the main road network, including major motorways where snow and ice have prompted temporary closures and restrictions.

Affected routes include:

• A‑6: between Villalba (Madrid) and Benavente (Zamora), kilometres 42–268
• A‑52: between Ourense and Ponteareas (Pontevedra), kilometres 224–294
• AP‑53: Vedra (A Coruña) to Dozón (Pontevedra), kilometres 3–57
• AG‑53: Dozón to Ourense, kilometres 57–87
• AP‑71: León to Astorga, kilometres 0–37.7
• A‑50: Ávila to Salamanca, kilometres 0–100
• A‑66: Pola de Lena (Asturias) to León, kilometres 59–143

Roads and Conditions in Andalucía

Storm Ingrid has also affected Andalucía, with yellow alerts for snow, wind, and coastal impacts in the provinces of Jaén, Granada, Almería, Huelva, and Cádiz. Multiple roads in Andalucía were partially closed due to snow, ice, and flooding, including:

• CA‑5201 Los Parralejos–Charco Dulce (Cádiz)
• CA‑9208 and CA‑9209 (Cádiz)
• A‑92: Puerto de la Mora, Granada, kilometres 256–259 (closed due to snow; detours via A‑44 and A‑308)

Authorities in Andalucía have activated pre‑emergency plans, while drivers are urged to follow detours and exercise caution on local and provincial roads. Heavy vehicles face restrictions in elevated or high‑risk areas.

Transportation Disruptions and Safety Precautions

Authorities advise avoiding unnecessary travel over the weekend. Snow accumulations, low temperatures, and icy conditions are expected to persist through Saturday. Blizzards and drifting snow in northern, central, and mountainous zones could further reduce visibility, complicating road clearance operations. Coastal ferries and transport services have been suspended in some areas for safety.

Impact on Communities and Services

In Galicia, authorities have suspended classes in numerous municipalities, including Ourense, Lugo, and Pontevedra. Emergency services have activated winter response plans to clear roads, assist stranded motorists, and maintain essential services. Multiple minor traffic incidents caused by snow and ice have been reported in northern provinces.

The Comité Nacional del Transporte por Carretera (CNTC) reported more than 10,000 trucks stranded due to temporary prohibitions, prompting warnings from supermarket groups about potential weekend shortages. Authorities continue to monitor and coordinate transport measures to reduce disruption.

Weather Forecast and Official Guidance

AEMET forecasts indicate that snow and icy conditions will continue into the weekend, with frost and low temperatures persisting. Coastal regions remain at risk from high waves and strong winds, while the polar air mass driving the cold conditions is expected to weaken only gradually. Precipitation will affect most of the territory, with the heaviest accumulations in Galicia, the mountains of the northwest, Baleares, the Strait of Gibraltar area, and elevated zones of Andalucía. Residents and motorists are urged to heed warnings, avoid unnecessary travel, and remain vigilant.

Insights and Implications

• AEMET red alerts cover Galicia; snow, wind, and rough seas affect 13 communities, including Andalucía.
• 98 roads are affected, 16 of them main roads, including A‑6, A‑52, AP‑53, AG‑53, AP‑71, A‑50, A‑66, and A‑92.
• Andalucía also affected: Jaén, Granada, Almería, Huelva, and Cádiz with road closures like CA‑5201, CA‑9208, CA‑9209.
• School closures and transport disruptions are in effect in many municipalities.
• Over 10,000 trucks remain stranded, highlighting potential supply chain issues.
• Authorities warn that the coming days will remain hazardous, with snow, ice, and strong winds continuing.

Storm Ingrid highlights the challenges of managing severe winter weather across a geographically diverse country. Coordination between AEMET, traffic authorities, and emergency responders is critical to maintaining public safety and essential services. Early warnings and travel restrictions help reduce accidents and enable efficient road clearance.

Road closures and heavy vehicle restrictions may delay deliveries, particularly to remote communities. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates, prepare for continued hazardous conditions, and follow official guidance until the storm subsides.