Lorraine Williamson
Spain’s unsettled weather is set to continue into Friday and the weekend, after a day of heavy rain, hail and storm warnings across much of the country.
Spain´s latest weather warnings from AEMET point to further showers and thunderstorms, especially across the north, east and parts of the centre. The south-west should see calmer conditions, although isolated showers remain possible.
At a glance: Spain weather from Friday
- Friday is expected to remain unsettled, with showers in the northern half of Spain.
- Storms may spread into eastern areas during the afternoon.
- Some downpours could be locally strong and accompanied by hail.
- Weekend outdoor events may be affected, especially in Madrid and parts of the east.
Heavy rain already hits Valencia and Madrid
Thursday brought a sharp deterioration in several regions.
EFE reported that all Spain, except Extremadura and the Canary Islands, was under rain or storm warnings, with the most severe conditions in the Valencian Community. AEMET activated orange alerts there for rainfall that could reach 40 litres per square metre in one hour.
In inland Valencia, Cadena SER reported intense rainfall in areas including Alzira and Ontinyent, with warnings for possible hail and strong gusts. Emergency services advised people to avoid unnecessary journeys and not cross flooded areas.
Madrid also saw alerts upgraded during the day. Local reports said parts of the capital and the Corredor del Henares were placed under orange warning as storms developed.
Friday brings more unsettled weather
AEMET’s national forecast points to showers and storms continuing on Friday, mainly in the northern half of the peninsula. During the afternoon, they may extend into parts of the east.
Infobae, citing AEMET’s outlook, said Friday would again bring “revuelto” conditions, with rain and showers in the north and storms that may be locally strong. Extremadura and Andalucia are expected to see more isolated showers, while both archipelagos may also see occasional rain.
That means travel and outdoor plans could still be affected, even where formal alerts are lower than Thursday’s.
Weekend events already being postponed
The unsettled outlook is already affecting weekend plans.
Several municipalities in northern Madrid have postponed outdoor events scheduled for 8 and 9 May due to rain forecasts and AEMET alerts. Cadena SER reported delays to family activities, fairs and outdoor cultural events in towns including Colmenar Viejo, Venturada and Manzanares El Real.
In Ontinyent, the Fira de Tendes, Tapes i Rock has been moved to 15–17 May because of the weather forecast.
The decisions show that the weekend may not bring a clean break from the unstable pattern.
Where conditions should be calmer
The south-west of mainland Spain is expected to be less affected than the north, centre and east.
AEMET’s forecast points to fewer significant showers in areas such as parts of Extremadura and western Andalucia. Even so, spring storms can be localised and fast-moving, so conditions may still vary sharply within the same province.
For coastal visitors, the key issue is not only rain. Sudden gusts, hail and poor visibility can also affect driving, walking routes and outdoor terraces.
What drivers and travellers should watch
The main risks over the next few days are localised downpours, surface water, hail and reduced visibility.
Drivers should avoid crossing flooded roads or barrancos, even if the water appears shallow. People heading to outdoor events should check town hall updates before travelling, as cancellations may be announced at short notice.
Anyone flying should also check airport and airline updates if storms develop near departure or arrival times.
A changeable start to May
May has started with a familiar pattern for much of Spain: warm spells, sudden storms and sharp regional contrasts.
This is not unusual in spring, but the intensity of short bursts of rain can still cause disruption. The practical message is simple: check the latest AEMET alerts before setting off, especially if travelling through inland, northern or eastern areas.
For now, Spain’s unsettled weather looks likely to remain part of the weekend story.