Spain Experiences Unseasonably Warm February Weather, Aemet Reports

Spain is currently experiencing spring-like weather conditions in late February, with temperatures exceeding seasonal norms by up to 10 degrees Celsius in many areas, according to Rubén del Campo, spokesperson for the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet).

Current Weather Overview

The weather across much of Spain is generally stable with mostly clear skies. However, the presence of haze is impacting air quality in some regions. Fog banks are similarly forming in various locations. Whereas precipitation is limited to parts of Galicia and the Cantabrian communities, it may extend to other areas of the northern half and the Mediterranean region over the weekend.

Temperature Trends

Temperatures are significantly higher than usual for this time of year, with daytime highs often surpassing 25°C in the Cantabrian Sea and parts of the Mediterranean area. Bilbao, Santander and Oviedo recently recorded temperatures around 27°C and 26°C, respectively. These temperatures are more typical of April than late February.

Forecast for the Coming Days

Thursday will remain stable with continued haze and fog, particularly in coastal and inland areas of the Mediterranean and the Balearic Islands. Temperatures will rise in the western peninsula but decrease in the Cantabrian Sea.

A front will bring rain to the northwest of the peninsula on Friday, specifically affecting Galicia, Asturias, and Cantabria, with potential for showers in nearby areas. A notable temperature drop is expected in the northwest, including Galicia, Castilla y León, Asturias, and Cantabria, while the rest of the country will see little change. Maximum temperatures in much of central and eastern Spain are expected to reach 18-20°C, with up to 25°C in parts of the Mediterranean.

Air Quality Concerns

Aemet has warned that suspended dust is contributing to haze and worsening air quality, particularly on Wednesday and Thursday.

Challenges Facing Aemet

According to Newtral, Aemet and its spokesperson, Rubén del Campo, are facing increasing campaigns of hate and disinformation online. Approximately one in four messages interacting with Aemet’s official X account aim to discredit the organization. This trend has intensified since Donald Trump’s return to the White House, as part of a broader effort to erode trust in science and institutions.

Del Campo notes that regardless of Aemet’s forecasts, the agency often receives criticism, with accusations of manipulating climate data or concealing information.

Looking Ahead

The stable weather pattern is expected to continue for a few days, with temperatures remaining above seasonal averages. However, rainfall may develop into more widespread across the peninsula and the Balearic Islands at the beginning of next week.