'Martinho' Brings Widespread Rain and Temperature Drops Across Spain

The storm 'Martinho' is continuing to impact Spain, bringing another day of widespread rain, particularly in the Sistema Central. According to Rubén Del Campo, spokesman for the Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (Aemet), «The Sistema Central is expected to accumulate another 40 liters of rain in 12 hours, and the thawing alert will continue.» This information, according to the source El País, highlights the intensity of the storm’s impact on this region.

Extremadura and Castilla y León are also experiencing significant rainfall. While Andalucía is not expected to receive as much rain, the already saturated soils mean that even small amounts of precipitation will have a noticeable effect. Victoria Torres Benayas (El País), points out that the heaviest rainfall will be concentrated in the Sistema Central, western and northern Castilla y León, Galicia, and the Aragonese Pyrenees.

Alerts Across the Country

Aemet has issued yellow alerts, the lowest level on a three-tier scale, for 16 communities. These alerts cover a range of weather phenomena, including:

  • Andalucía, Galicia, and Baleares: Wind and rough seas
  • Aragón: Rain, rough seas, and storms
  • Castilla y León: Rain, wind, and thawing
  • Castilla-La Mancha: Rain and wind
  • Asturias, Cantabria, Navarra, País Vasco, and La Rioja: Wind
  • Extremadura and Comunidad de Madrid: Rain
  • Murcia and Comunitat Valenciana: Rough seas

Weekend Forecast: Unstable Conditions Persist

As the weekend approaches, 'Martinho' is expected to move away, but unstable weather conditions will remain. Del Campo forecasts «a couple of days, Saturday and Sunday, of showers, with intermittent rain, even intense at times, followed by brief periods of sunshine before the clouds return and it rains again.» These showers are likely to affect most of the country, except for the Mediterranean area and the Balearic Islands.

Temperature Drop and Snowfall

A significant drop in temperatures is expected starting Friday, with some areas experiencing a decrease of four to five degrees. This will lower the snow level from 1,600-1,500 meters on Friday to around 1,300-1,400 meters on Friday and approximately 1,100 meters on Saturday.

Historical Context: A Wet March

Between March 1st and 18th, Spain has already accumulated 114 l/m² of rainfall, making it a very wet month, except in the far north. According to the weather source, this places March 2025 as the 7th wettest on record, with thirteen days still to be accounted for. The record is 164.6 l/m² in 2018.

Impact and Preparedness

The widespread rainfall and temperature drops are posing challenges for communities across Spain. The saturated soils increase the risk of flooding and landslides, while the lower temperatures and snowfall could disrupt transportation and other activities. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions, stay informed about weather updates, and follow safety guidelines.

Conclusion

While 'Martinho' is expected to gradually move away, its impact will continue to be felt throughout the weekend. The combination of widespread rain, unstable conditions, and temperature drops requires vigilance and preparedness from residents and authorities alike. Staying informed and taking necessary precautions is crucial to mitigating the risks associated with this storm.