Else Beekman
Spain is bracing for a wild weather weekend as Storm Jana, the tenth named storm of the season, moves in from the Atlantic. The Spanish weather agency AEMET has issued multiple warnings, with heavy rain, powerful winds, and snowfall expected to hit various regions. If you’re in Spain, it’s time to grab an umbrella—and maybe even some snow gear.
Get ready for a wet and stormy few days. Storm Jana is expected to drench the western half of Spain on Friday, with the heaviest rainfall hitting the Central System, western Andalucia, and the Sanabria area in Zamora. Some areas could see up to 40 litres per square metre in just half a day.
By Saturday, things will get even more intense. The storm will unleash heavy downpours in Andalucia, Ceuta, and the Pyrenees, with rainfall possibly exceeding 100 litres per square metre in just 24 hours. That much rain means flooding is a serious risk. Authorities have already issued storm warnings for 13 regions, including Madrid, Castilla y León, and Extremadura.
Howling winds and dangerous seas
It’s not just the rain causing trouble—Storm Jana is bringing some serious wind as well. The storm will first hit Galicia and the Cantabrian mountains before sweeping across the Central System, northern Iberia, and the Pyrenees. Wind speeds could exceed 90 km/h in mountainous areas, and coastal regions are bracing for dangerously rough seas.
Yellow and orange warnings for strong winds are in place for multiple regions, including Asturias, Cantabria, and the Basque Country. If you’re near the coast, expect powerful waves and choppy waters. Travellers should check conditions before heading out, as ferry services and flights may be affected.
Snowfall for the Mountains
If you’re a winter sports fan, there’s a silver lining to this storm. As temperatures drop, Storm Jana is expected to bring significant snowfall to Spain’s mountain ranges. By Saturday evening, snow levels could dip to around 1,000 metres, with the Pyrenees and other high-altitude regions seeing over 50 cm of fresh snow. While great for skiers, heavy snowfall could disrupt travel and daily life in affected areas.
Storm Jana begins to weaken by Sunday
However, the storm won’t stick around forever. By Sunday, its strength will start to fade, although rain will continue in the northeast, the Alboran Sea, and the Strait of Gibraltar. Winds will also ease up, but gusty conditions may still linger in Galicia, the Cantabrian Mountains, and some coastal areas.
Looking ahead, meteorologists warn that more storms could be on the way, keeping Spain’s weather unsettled in the coming days. Authorities are urging people to stay informed and take precautions, whether at home or travelling.
Also read: Floods claim another life in Spain, this time in Murcia