Significant Temperature Drop Brings a “Winter-like” Feel to May
Starting from May 6, 2026, a strong cold air mass from high-latitude regions will begin to affect Spain, causing a significant drop in temperatures nationwide. The drop is predicted to be as much as 8 to 10 degrees Celsius, bringing overall temperatures well below the average for this time of year. This unseasonably cold weather will peak over the weekend, especially in the inland areas of the Iberian Peninsula, where daytime temperatures are expected to hover between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius, feeling more like late March.
Midweek Transition: Eastern and Mountainous Regions to Be Affected First
This Wednesday (May 6) marks a transitional day for the weather. Rainfall will be concentrated in the eastern part of the peninsula, with rain warnings issued for Mallorca, Girona, and northwestern Murcia. Meanwhile, the Pyrenees and Cantabrian Mountains will see snowfall at altitudes above 1,500 to 1,800 meters. Temperatures have already begun to fall in the Canary Islands and the northeastern peninsula. While southern cities like Seville (approx. 26°C), Córdoba, and Málaga (approx. 25°C) remain warm, northern cities such as Vitoria (approx. 14°C) and Burgos (approx. 15°C) will already feel the chill.
Increased Instability from Thursday, “Mud Rain” Possible
From Thursday, as a new low-pressure trough approaches, atmospheric instability over Spain will intensify. More widespread and intense showers are expected in several regions, including the Iberian System, Castile and León, Galicia, the Cantabrian coast, the Valencian Community, the southeastern peninsula, and the Balearic Islands. A noteworthy phenomenon is the possibility of ‘mud rain’—rain carrying Saharan dust—which could affect the central and eastern parts of the peninsula and the Balearic Islands.
Weekend to See Temperature Lows as Polar Air Mass Brings Widespread Rain and Thunderstorms
The weather is expected to deteriorate further over the weekend. A cold low-pressure system originating from latitudes near Iceland will bring a polar maritime air mass, affecting most of Spain. This system will not only intensify the cooling but also cause widespread precipitation, often accompanied by thunderstorms. The coldest areas will be concentrated in the Central System and the northern plateau, with daytime temperatures staying between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius. In comparison, the Mediterranean coast and the southern peninsula will be less affected but will still experience temperatures below the seasonal average.
