Climate and monthly weather forecast
Spain

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The climate of Spain

Spain is a highly climatically diverse country in Southwestern Europe. A Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification Csa, Csb) is dominant in much of Spain, with warm to hot summers and cold, wet winters. An oceanic climate (Köppen Cfb) with regular winter snowfall is evident in the extreme northern region. A section of the southeast and central areas has a semi-arid climate (Köppen BSh, BSk) predominantly. Many areas in the northeast and mountains above the altitude of 1000 meters display a continental climate (Köppen Dfb). Alpine, sub-arctic, tropical, and desert climate types are also evident in different parts of the country. Spain lies on the Iberian Peninsula and includes a few islands off the African Coast and the Mediterranean Sea. The Atlantic Ocean and Portugal lie to the west of Spain, France and Andorra are in the north, and the Mediterranean Sea lies to the south and east. The location in the temperate latitudes, proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea significantly influence the climate.

Spain has an average elevation of 650 meters above sea level, with the highest point at 3718 meters on Mount Teide. The topography mainly consists of highland plateaus, with many mountain ranges. Narrow coastal plains and lowland valleys and regions occupy a minor part of the other landforms. The Meseta Central is a vast plateau in Spain, with many mountains, rivers, and even glaciers at the apex. The Tagus River, the longest in the Iberian Peninsula, separates a chain of low mountain ranges from the Sistema Central in the north. The Pyrenees and the Basque Mountains lie in the northeast region. The mountains of Sierra Morena, Sistema Iberico, and Cordillera Cantabrica, in the Meseta Central rarely rise above 2300 meters in altitude. The Andalusian Plain is a major lowland region in the southwest. The Balearic Islands lie in the Atlantic Ocean, fifty miles off the east coast of Spain. The Canary Islands are of volcanic origin and lie fifty-five miles off the west coast of Africa.

The best time to visit Spain

The best times to visit Spain are during the mild seasons of spring and autumn. May, June, and September are pleasant in the interior of the central and southern regions, with comfortable temperatures compared to the summer. The northern region close to the Atlantic Coast has cold and wet summers. The mountains have a great atmosphere in the summer and are popular vacation destinations. Beach holidays along the Mediterranean Coast are best from June to August when the seawaters are mild. The Pyrenees are popular for ski holidays, although snow occurs only at altitudes above 3000 meters in the winter.

The worst time to visit Spain

The worst time to visit Spain, if any, is during the winter. Significant snowfall occurs in the mountains at altitudes above 2000 meters. Winter begins the ski season in the northern and southern mountains. The average temperatures drop below freezing in the hilly areas at places above 1800 meters. The interior areas of Spain, especially in the north, are prone to cold gusts from the North Pole. The Mediterranean Coast in the south has mild and sunny winters and is a preferred destination when the rest of the country is in the clutches of cold weather. The southern inland areas are scorching during the summer due to the proximity to the Sahara region of Africa.

Spring weather in Spain

Spring ushers in moderate temperatures and dry conditions in Spain. In northern Spain, the weather remains pleasant, but by May, temperatures in the south begin to climb, foreshadowing the approaching summer heat. Rainfall is less frequent during this season, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The seasonal shift also invites a rich display of flora across the country, enhancing the scenic beauty of Spain.

Summer weather in Spain

Summers in Spain are characterized by high temperatures and dry conditions. The central plains often see temperatures soaring above 35°C (95°F), while southeastern Spain, including the Ebro Valley, experiences temperatures above 40°C (104°F). However, the influence of the Atlantic Ocean keeps summer temperatures more moderate in the Asturias, Basque Country, and Galicia regions. These areas offer respite from the intense heat experienced in other parts of Spain.

Autumn weather in Spain

Autumn is a time of transition in Spain. The weather is generally mild, but rainfall is more frequent, especially along the coast, making it the wettest season in these regions. Despite this, the autumn period is quite pleasant, with mild temperatures providing comfortable conditions for exploring the country's rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty. The foliage transforming into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow adds to the country's visual appeal.

Winter weather in Spain

Winters in Spain bring colder temperatures and varying levels of snowfall. In the northern and southern mountains, substantial snowfall is typical at altitudes above 3000 meters, starting the ski season. The interior and northern regions of the country experience cold nights with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. However, the southern coastal strips offer some of Europe's warmest winters with temperatures usually remaining above 7.8°C (46°F). Despite the cooler temperatures, the winter season brings its charm, transforming Spain's landscapes into winter wonderlands.

Weather in January

January in Spain signals the height of winter with varying climatic conditions depending on geographical location. The northern regions, influenced by the oceanic climate, experience lower temperatures compared to other areas. In the northeastern mountain ranges such as the Pyrenees, temperatures can fall below freezing, with snowfall common at altitudes above 2000 meters. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February continues the winter season across Spain, with weather patterns largely echoing those of January, though a subtle shift towards spring can be observed as the month progresses. Temperatures remain on the lower side, particularly in the northern and central regions, but begin to gradually increase towards the end of the month. In the north, regions such as the Pyrenees and Basque Country experience a continuation of freezing temperatures, especially in altitudes above 2000 meters where snowfall is frequent. Weather in February »

Weather in March

As March unfolds, Spain begins to transition from winter to spring. This month brings milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and a general decrease in rainfall across most parts of the country. The northern regions, such as the Pyrenees and the Basque Country, start to experience a slow rise in temperatures, although sub-zero temperatures and snowfall can still occur at higher altitudes. Weather in March »

Weather in April

With the arrival of April, Spain fully embraces the spring season. The weather during this month is generally mild and pleasant, with increasing temperatures, decreased rainfall, and longer daylight hours in all parts of the country. In the northern regions, such as the Pyrenees and the Basque Country, the spring warmth becomes more noticeable. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May ushers in the peak of the spring season in Spain, characterised by pleasantly warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and minimal rainfall. It is one of the most desirable times to explore the country's diverse landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities. In the northern regions, including the Pyrenees and the Basque Country, the weather becomes increasingly warm and inviting. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June in Spain marks the onset of summer, with long days of sunshine, escalating temperatures, and significantly reduced rainfall, presenting ideal conditions for beach holidays and outdoor exploration. In the northern regions, including the Pyrenees and the Basque Country, the summer warmth is increasingly evident. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is the height of summer in Spain, bringing in sweltering heat, extended daylight hours, and the driest conditions of the year. It is a prime month for beach vacations and watersports along Spain's numerous coastlines. In the northern regions of the Pyrenees and the Basque Country, temperatures range between 22°C (71.6°F) and 26°C (78.8°F). Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Spain continues the trend of intense summer heat, marking it as one of the warmest months of the year, with scant rainfall and abundant sunshine. It is a favored month for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor leisure. In the northern regions such as the Pyrenees and the Basque Country, the temperatures continue to range between 22°C (71.6°F) and 26°C (78.8°F), maintaining a summer warmth that is comfortable rather than oppressive. Weather in August »

Weather in September

As September rolls in, Spain begins its transition from the peak summer season to autumn. The month generally offers a pleasant blend of sunny days and cooler nights, making it a popular time for travelers seeking milder weather and less crowded tourist attractions. The northern regions, including the Pyrenees and the Basque Country, begin to cool down, with temperatures ranging from 18°C (64.4°F) to 23°C (73.4°F). Weather in September »

Weather in October

October heralds the arrival of true autumn in Spain, bringing with it noticeable shifts in temperature and precipitation patterns. Days become shorter, temperatures drop, and the landscape begins to transition, highlighting the changing season. In the northern regions, including the Pyrenees and the Basque Country, temperatures continue to fall, with averages ranging between 14°C (57.2°F) to 18°C (64.4°F). Weather in October »

Weather in November

November brings with it the onset of the winter season in Spain. With the days growing shorter and the temperatures falling, the landscapes of Spain start to exhibit distinct signs of the changing season. Rainfall increases, particularly in the northern and northwestern regions, making November one of the wetter months of the year. In the northern regions, including the Pyrenees and the Basque Country, temperatures drop considerably, with averages between 9°C (48.2°F) and 13°C (55.4°F). Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Spain heralds the full swing of the winter season, characterized by lower temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and increased rainfall. It is in December that Spain starts to experience the chill of the winter season, with temperatures plummeting in many regions. In the northern regions, including the Basque Country and the Pyrenees, the average temperatures drop further, ranging between 6°C (42.8°F) and 9°C (48.2°F). Weather in December »
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