The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued its weather forecast for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, bringing clarity after a period of uncertainty caused by the recent DANA (Isolated High-Level Depression) affecting the Canary Islands.
Current Weather Conditions
The week begins with generally stable weather across mainland Spain, except for precipitation in northern areas, strong winds, and rough seas in the northern half, eastern regions, and the Balearic Islands. Temperatures are typical for December, with frost in some inland areas, but milder conditions along the Mediterranean coast and parts of southern Spain.
In the Canary Islands, unsettled weather over the weekend is gradually giving way to reduced rainfall. However, a new challenge emerges with the arrival of calima (suspended dust), which will reduce visibility and air quality.
Christmas Eve (Tuesday, 24th December)
The weather across Spain will become more stable, though certain areas will continue to experience challenges:
- Mainland Spain:
- Strong wind gusts in the northeast and Balearic Islands, possibly exceeding 90–100 km/h.
- Rainfall in the far north, with snow levels rising from 700 metres in the early hours to 1,400–1,800 metres later in the day.
- Persistent fog in inland areas.
- Daytime temperatures in the Mediterranean region and Andalusia will reach a mild 18–20°C, except in areas affected by persistent fog.
- Canary Islands:
- The western islands will experience occasional rain, with snow above 2,000 metres.
- The eastern islands will see diminishing rainfall but an increase in calima, which could disrupt daily activities.
Christmas Day (Wednesday, 25th December)
Anticyclonic conditions will dominate most of Spain, bringing sunshine and stable weather:
- Mainland Spain:
- Rain will persist in the eastern Cantabrian and Pyrenean regions.
- Elsewhere, sunny skies will prevail, with persistent fog in some inland areas keeping temperatures cooler throughout the day.
- Daytime temperatures will rise, with 18–20°C expected along the Mediterranean coast. Night-time frosts will be limited but present in some inland areas.
- Canary Islands:
- The haze will remain the most significant feature, although it is expected to gradually subside. Temperatures will remain stable.
Post-Christmas Outlook
- Thursday, 26th December:
- The anticyclonic pattern will hold over much of Spain, bringing rain to coastal Mediterranean areas.
- Fog will persist in inland areas, while the Canary Islands may see a reduction in haze, with possible clouds and showers, especially in the western islands.
- Friday, 27th December:
- A similar situation to Thursday, with clear skies dominating most of Spain and rain focused on the Mediterranean coast.
Looking Towards the End of the Year
From Saturday, 28th December, to Tuesday, 31st December, weather patterns are expected to shift as a low-pressure system forms between the Gulf of Cádiz and the Mediterranean. This system could bring:
- Increased instability with rain and heavy showers, particularly in the Mediterranean regions, southern Spain, and the Balearic Islands.
- The northwest of Spain will remain the driest area.
- A slight drop in temperatures, with frosts becoming more widespread in inland areas.
- In the Canary Islands, conditions are expected to stabilize gradually, with occasional showers likely in the western islands.
Advice for Residents and Visitors
- In the Canary Islands, take precautions during periods of calima by staying indoors, avoiding strenuous outdoor activity, and keeping hydrated.
- Travelers should monitor local forecasts and stay updated on road and flight conditions, especially in regions prone to snow, fog, or haze.
As Christmas approaches, Spain and the Canary Islands offer a mix of weather conditions, from festive sunshine in some areas to challenging fog, wind, and calima in others. Stay informed and enjoy the holiday season safely.
