Storm Marta: Heavy Rain, Wind & Snow to Hit Spain This Weekend

A renewed risk of meteorological and hydrological hazards is forecast for the weekend, as heavy rainfall is expected to return to areas most impacted by recent storms. The latest Atlantic storm, named Marta, is predicted to bring intense rainfall to the western Iberian Peninsula on Saturday, accompanied by strong winds and snowfall.

Andalusia and Extremadura Face the Brunt

The pattern observed over the past week is expected to repeat, meaning the areas already saturated with water will be most vulnerable to the new rainfall. Intense rainfall is anticipated in Andalusia, particularly in the provinces of Cádiz, Sevilla, and Málaga. Estimates suggest Grazalema could see rainfall totals exceeding 100 to 150 litres per square meter in a 24-hour period, with significant accumulations also expected in the Guadalquivir basin.

Did You Know? Rainfall totals in Grazalema could exceed 100 to 150 litres per square meter within 24 hours.

Extremadura will also be affected by heavy rain and thunderstorms, primarily in the south of Badajoz and the north of Cáceres. Rainfall will extend, though with less intensity, across the rest of the western and central Iberian Peninsula, resulting in fewer disruptions in those areas.

Snowfall in the Central System

Snowfall Expected

Snowfall is forecast to become more prominent in the Sistema Central mountain range on Saturday. The snow line will fluctuate between 800 and 1200 metres, potentially impacting areas north of Madrid, as well as the southern regions of Ávila and Segovia. The Cantabrian Mountains, the Mediterranean coast, and the Canary Islands are expected to experience calmer weather, particularly on Saturday.

Expert Insight: The combination of saturated ground, high river levels, and full reservoirs creates a challenging scenario for managing the anticipated rainfall, increasing the potential for localized flooding and disruptions.

Shift in Precipitation Pattern on Sunday

Mediterranean Region to See Rainfall

On Sunday, precipitation is expected to concentrate in the Mediterranean area, offering a temporary respite from the storms for the regions most affected earlier in the week. However, this break is likely to be short-lived, as new Atlantic fronts are predicted to arrive Sunday night, bringing further rainfall to the previously impacted areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What storm is impacting the Iberian Peninsula?

The storm impacting the Iberian Peninsula is named Marta.

Which regions are expected to receive the most rainfall?

Andalusia, specifically the provinces of Cádiz, Sevilla, and Málaga, and Extremadura are expected to receive the most rainfall.

Where is snowfall expected?

Snowfall is expected in the Sistema Central mountain range, potentially affecting areas north of Madrid, and the southern regions of Ávila and Segovia.

As conditions evolve, how might local communities prepare for potential disruptions caused by continued rainfall and snowfall?