Spain rings in 2026 with a wet and windy start that threatens to rain on its parade as preparations are well underway for the Three Kings celebrations on the eve of Epiphany. High-impact storm Francis is predicted to bring a major winter tempest, delivering intense rainfall in the form of a DANA (Isolated depression at high altitude) with strong winds, and heavy snowfall to many regions. Named by the Portuguese meteorological service, Francis will be the sixth major storm of the 2025-2026 season and could severely impact the eagerly awaited Three Kings’ Parades (Cabalgatas de Reyes) on January 5, the first mass celebration across Spain of the year.
Coastal areas expecting weekend soaking from Storm Francis
Almeria: Heavy downpours are expected from Sunday, January 4, continuing through until the early week. Local authorities urge residents to monitor updates, as the Three Kings’ Parade could be heavily affected by the relentless rain, as well as planned journeys. All snow resorts are banking on high levels of skiable snow, yet possible blizzards and high winds.
Costa del Sol and Axarquia: Possible AEMET orange-level warnings for intense rainfall are anticipated from Saturday until Tuesday. The Costa del Sol region may see widespread downpours, threatening outdoor parades and festivities.
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Murcia: Heavy rains are forecast starting Sunday evening and persisting until midweek, raising concerns for parades in this southeastern area.
Alicante and Valencia: The heaviest rainfall is expected on Sunday and Monday, with a notable risk of snow. Temperatures along the Costa Blanca are set to plummet over the weekend, potentially dropping by as much as 10°C by Tuesday, January 6 (Epiphany). Snow levels could descend to as low as 200 meters in altitude, adding a wintry background and chilly winds into the mix.
Mallorca (Balearic Islands): The storm is expected to reach the islands with intense rainfall, particularly on Monday, January 5, potentially complicating parade plans.
When will Francis arrive?
Francis will first affect the Canary Islands on New Year’s Day with strong winds and heavy showers, and then move toward the mainland, intensifying over the southwest before shifting southeast. By Monday and Tuesday, consistent precipitation and abundant snowfall are likely in mountainous areas of the southeast, including Sierra Nevada and the interior of the Valencian Community.
On Epiphany Tuesday, January 6, rains in the southeast should ease during the day, though weak snow and intense showers may hang around along the Andalucian Mediterranean coast. A polar air mass entering from the northwest could bring further cold and snow to northern regions later in the week.
While the storm threatens holiday celebrations, it does offer a silver lining: Spain desperately needs this rainfall to replenish reserves and ensure a drought-free 2026 after years of water stress.