Else Beekman
Renowned weather forecaster Jorge Rey has issued a stark warning, urging everyone to prepare for an upcoming series of storms, or “tren de borrascas,” set to hit Spain in the coming days.
This supposedly dramatic shift in weather marks the end of the recent period with abundant rain, cold temperatures, and even snow expected across various regions of the country. Rey’s predictions have gained attention thanks to his unique use of the traditional cabañuelas method, which has accurately forecasted extreme weather events in the past, including the infamous Filomena storm.
A stormy autumn ahead
Jorge Rey has cautioned that the next few days could bring more severe weather than expected. He warns Spain should brace for significant challenges. He predicts heavy rain and lower temperatures, turning this autumn into a season of intense storms and potential disruptions. As Rey’s forecasts have been proven correct before, there is growing concern that the upcoming weather could impact daily life, particularly as people are urged to reconsider any weekend plans.
Calm before the storm
This past weekend may have offered a brief period of calm, but it is expected to be the lull before the storm. The tranquillity will be short-lived. Rey warns that a wave of storms will sweep through the country, bringing strong winds, cold temperatures, and snow to certain areas. His forecasts align with predictions from Meteored, which has also confirmed the arrival of a DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos), a cold drop that could result in severe weather.
A complicated week ahead
The storms are set to intensify throughout the coming week driven by a DANA (isolated depression at high levels), with particularly heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected in Mediterranean regions. According to meteorological reports, this system will be fuelled by a Mediterranean Sea that is over 2ºC warmer than usual, potentially leading to very adverse conditions. The most significant risk will come from locally intense rainfalls. This could affect areas in the east of the peninsula, such as southern Valencia and northern Alicante and the Balearic Islands. The second event, expected from October 24-27, could involve a new DANA, potentially leading to further intense rainfall. These weather patterns may bring needed rain to drought-stricken areas, though exact intensities remain uncertain.
What is the ‘cabañuelas method’?
The Cabañuelas method is a traditional weather prediction system used in Spain. It involves observing atmospheric conditions during the first days of January or August and using these observations to forecast the weather for the upcoming year. Each day of observation corresponds to a month, predicting the weather through detailed observation of the sky and natural elements. This ancient method, popularised by Jorge Rey, contrasts with modern scientific predictions but has gained attention for accurately predicting significant weather events like Storm Filomena.