Storm Ingrid to Hit Spain This Weekend With Strong Winds, Heavy Rain and Snow

Spain is bracing for a new Atlantic storm system, named Ingrid, which is expected to sweep across the country from Friday 23 January and bring a mixed bag of severe weather into the start of next week. Forecasters warn of powerful gusts of wind, intense rain, rough seas and snowfall in higher ground, with western and northern areas bearing the brunt.

When Will Storm Ingrid Arrive

The first effects of Ingrid are forecast to reach Galicia and the northwest on Friday, as active frontal systems move in from the Atlantic. Through Saturday and Sunday, the storm will extend to much of the peninsula, affecting both coastal and inland regions, before gradually easing as it moves away early next week.

Weather alerts are expected to be issued in phases, starting with the far northwest and then spreading along the Cantabrian coast, the western half of the peninsula and eventually parts of the south and Mediterranean areas as the system progresses.

Regions Most at Risk

The worst conditions are likely along the Atlantic façade and the Cantabrian coastline, where strong onshore winds and large waves are anticipated. Coastal Galicia, Asturias and Cantabria could see particularly rough seas and hazardous conditions around ports and promenades.

Further south, parts of western Andalucía and the area around the Strait of Gibraltar may also experience very unsettled weather, with periods of heavy rain and gusty winds as the storm tracks eastwards. Inland, central and northern regions are expected to feel the change in conditions through falling temperatures, showers and increasing wind.

Wind, Rain and Snow Forecast

Gale-force gusts are possible in exposed areas, especially near the coasts and in mountainous zones. These winds may cause travel issues, fallen branches and difficult driving conditions on open stretches of road. Residents are advised to secure loose objects on balconies and terraces ahead of the worst of the weather.

Rainfall is likely to be most intense in the west and north, where fronts will linger for longer. Localised flooding, waterlogged roads and rapid rises in smaller rivers and streams are possible if the heaviest downpours align over the same areas for several hours.

As cooler air feeds in behind the fronts, the snow line is expected to drop to roughly 300–500 metres in northern and some central regions. Mountain ranges such as the Cantabrian mountains and parts of the central system could see fresh accumulations, potentially affecting mountain passes and high-altitude roads.

Sea Conditions and Coastal Warnings

One of the most notable features of Ingrid will be the state of the sea along Spain’s western and northern coasts. Swells are forecast to build significantly, with waves reaching several metres in height at times. Coastal authorities are likely to activate warnings for dangerous sea conditions, urging people to stay away from breakwaters, cliffs and seafront walkways during the peak of the storm.

The Balearic Islands and parts of the Mediterranean coastline may also see periods of choppy seas and strong winds as the system moves further east, although conditions here should generally be less severe than along the Atlantic side.

Temperatures and Regional Differences

Behind the incoming fronts, temperatures will fall across much of the country. Many inland areas in the north and centre may struggle to reach double digits during the day over the weekend, especially where cloud cover and precipitation persist.

By contrast, the Mediterranean coast – including cities such as Alicante, Almería and Málaga – is expected to remain comparatively mild, with daytime highs often in the mid to high teens. However, even in these areas, intervals of rain and blustery winds are likely as bands of showers move through.

Advice for Residents and Travellers

People living in or travelling through the affected regions should keep a close eye on updated local forecasts and any official warnings issued over the coming days. Those planning journeys by road, rail or sea at the weekend may face delays, diversions or cancellations if conditions deteriorate as expected.

Simple precautions such as checking travel plans in advance, allowing extra time for journeys, avoiding exposed coastal areas during the peak of the storm and preparing for colder, wetter conditions will help minimise disruption. For expats and visitors unused to Spain’s more severe Atlantic weather, Storm Ingrid will be a reminder that winter can still pack a punch, even in a country better known for its sunshine.