Storm Herminia to Bring Severe Weather to Spain This Weekend

This weekend, Spain is bracing for the impact of Storm Herminia, a powerful maritime storm that is expected to bring widespread rainfall and strong winds across much of the country.

Widespread Impact

Starting on Sunday, January 26, the majority of the Spanish Peninsula and the Balearic Islands will face winds reaching hurricane speeds. Storm Herminia, the eighth storm of the season, is not directly targeting Spain but its proximity will still cause significant weather disruptions. According to Rubén del Campo, a spokesperson for Aemet (The State Meteorological Agency), the storm will result in geographically spread rains and 'hurricane gusts' in various regions[1].

Severe Weather Conditions

The storm's intensity is expected to peak on Sunday due to the process of cyclogenesis, which involves the strengthening of an area of low pressure in the atmosphere. This will lead to the formation of a cyclone, making the storm more dangerous than initially anticipated. Galicia and the Cantabria region will be particularly hard hit, with winds exceeding 100 kilometers per hour and waves reaching at least six meters tall. Western Galicia will experience very heavy rains, while the rest of the peninsula will see weaker but still significant rainfall[1].

Regional Alerts and Warnings

Aemet has issued orange warnings for several regions, including Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, Castilla y León, and Navarra, due to the combination of strong winds and dangerous seas. Yellow warnings have also been placed in the Basque Country and La Rioja. In Andalucía, the most affected areas are expected to be Granada and Almeria, with strong gusts of wind anticipated[3].

Unusual Temperatures

Despite the severe weather conditions, temperatures are expected to remain unusually warm for this time of year, with coastal cities like Bilbao, Barcelona, and Valencia reaching up to 20°C or more. This contrast in weather will add to the complexity of the storm's impact[1].

Potential for Further Disruption on Monday

Monday, January 27, could be the most damaging day of the storm, with widespread heavy rain and wind gusts expected across many of Spain's coasts. Hurricane speeds have not been ruled out for Monday, and the entire peninsula is likely to experience heavy rainfall[1].

Canary Islands Spared

In contrast, the Canary Islands are expected to be largely unaffected by the storm, with only light drizzles and dark clouds anticipated, but no significant wind gusts or extreme rain[1].

Preparations and Safety Measures

Given the severity of the forecast, residents and expats alike are advised to take necessary precautions. This includes staying informed about local weather updates, securing outdoor items that could be blown away by strong winds, and being prepared for potential power outages and travel disruptions.

As Spain prepares to face the full force of Storm Herminia, it is crucial to remain vigilant and follow the guidelines set by local authorities to ensure safety during this period.