Lorraine Williamson
Joseph is set to bring heavy rain, snow, and strong winds to much of Spain this week, with red warnings already issued in parts of Galicia and authorities urging caution.
A new powerful Atlantic storm, named Borrasca Joseph, is forecast to arrive in Spain on Monday, 26 January 2026, continuing a period of unsettled weather that began with Storm Ingrid. The Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET) and meteorological agencies in Europe say Joseph will bring persistent and widespread rainfall, strong winds, mountain snow and rough seas.
What the forecasts show
AEMET has issued red weather warnings for parts of north-western Spain, especially the interior of Pontevedra (Galicia), for extreme rainfall, with accumulations potentially exceeding 120–150 mm in 12–24 hours. Such totals raise significant flood and river-inebrasion risks, particularly where the ground is already saturated from recent storms.
Alongside heavy rain, snowfall is expected in mountain areas, with mixed rain-snow events in central and northern regions. Strong gale-force winds and dangerous coastal conditions — including high seas and swells — are also forecast as the storm system moves inland from the Atlantic.
Disruptions and safety measures
In anticipation of the storm’s impact, regional authorities have already suspended school classes and activities in parts of inland Pontevedra. Consequently, the Comisión Escolar de Alertas cancelled classes for Monday as rain and winds are expected to intensify.
Roads across the northwest and other regions could be affected by flooding, reduced visibility and water on road surfaces, according to weather analysts. Emergency services are advising people to follow official warnings from AEMET, consult local Protección Civil guidance and avoid unnecessary travel during peak precipitation hours.
Broader weather context
Joseph follows closely on the heels of Storm Ingrid, which battered much of the peninsula with heavy rain, wind and snow over the weekend. That earlier system prompted multiple weather alerts, coastal warnings and travel disruptions before gradually weakening.
Meteorologists highlight a weather pattern of frequent Atlantic fronts this season, with storms forming over the north Atlantic and pushing moist, unstable air across western Europe. This sequence increases the likelihood of a series of impactful weather events rather than isolated storms.
What readers should know now
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Timing:
Joseph is expected to affect Spain from Monday, 26 January, into mid-week. -
Highest risks:
Galicia and north-western areas will see the most intense rainfall and red alerts. -
Secondary threats:
Snow in mountain zones, strong winds inland, and rough seas along exposed coasts. -
Stay informed:
Check AEMET warning maps for live updates and heed local emergency advice.
Spain’s weather situation remains highly dynamic, and residents and travellers should monitor official updates throughout the week.
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