Lorraine Williamson
Spain faces a more unstable Sunday than many weekend travellers may have expected, with AEMET warnings active today for storms, possible hail, strong gusts and high temperatures in different parts of the country.
The national weather agency has warned of probable showers and storms during Sunday 14 June, especially across inland areas, mountain systems and parts of the north-west and eastern Pyrenees. Some storms may be accompanied by hail and very strong gusts of wind.
It means Sunday could bring a sharp contrast between bright, hot conditions in some areas and sudden storm activity in others.
Where storms and hail are most likely
The most unstable conditions are expected across parts of the northern and southern Meseta, Galicia, Extremadura, the eastern Pyrenees and several mountain areas.
These include zones linked to the Cantabrian, Central, Iberian and Subbética systems, where afternoon storms can develop quickly after a warm start to the day.
Spanish reports citing AEMET say the storms may arrive with hail and strong or very strong gusts of wind in several inland and upland areas. Storms may be localised. One town may see heavy rain, hail or sudden gusts, while another nearby remains dry.
Madrid among areas under storm alert
Madrid is among the regions affected by Sunday’s storm risk.
The regional emergency service, 112 Comunidad de Madrid, has warned of a yellow alert for storms across the whole region from midday until 9.00 pm.
That timing matters for anyone planning Sunday lunch outdoors, sports events, countryside walks, swimming pools, terraces or return journeys after a weekend away.
Storms in central Spain can build quickly during the afternoon. They may bring sudden downpours, lightning and gusty wind even after a calm or sunny morning.
Heat has not disappeared
Although storms are the main concern in several areas, high temperatures remain part of the Sunday forecast. Parts of the Ebro valley and other inland zones could still see maximum temperatures around 35C to 38C.
This creates a difficult mix in some areas: hot conditions during the day, followed by the possibility of storm development later on. People who are outdoors for long periods should take care with both risks. Heat can build gradually, while storms can arrive suddenly.
What this means for travel and outdoor plans
Anyone travelling today should check the local forecast before setting off, especially if heading through mountain areas, rural roads, inland regions or places where storms are forecast.
If a storm develops while driving, reduce speed, increase the distance from other vehicles and avoid stopping under trees, bridges with poor drainage, or unstable structures.
Hikers, cyclists and people spending time in countryside areas should avoid exposed ridges, isolated trees, riverbeds and open fields if thunder develops.
Outdoor events may also need flexible plans, particularly during the afternoon and early evening.
Fire risk remains a background concern
Fire risk remains part of the wider weather picture after a difficult week for emergency crews in parts of Spain. AEMET publishes daily forest fire danger maps based on weather conditions such as temperature, humidity, wind and recent rainfall.
During hot, dry or windy spells, people should avoid lighting fires or barbecues outside authorised areas, dispose of cigarette ends safely and call emergency services if they see smoke or flames.
Even after storms, local fire risk can remain high if rainfall is limited or uneven.
Simple safety advice for Sunday
During heat warnings, avoid strenuous activity in the hottest hours, drink water regularly and check on vulnerable people. During storms, the safest place is indoors. Avoid open ground, hilltops, metal fences, isolated trees and flooded roads.
If hail arrives, move vehicles under safe cover where possible, but do not stop in dangerous places to do so.
For beach trips, water sports or coastal plans, check local wind and sea conditions before setting out.