Madrid Faces a Cold Weekend with Snowfalls in the Sierra

Published on January 17, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Aerial photograph of the Guadarrama mountain range with light snowfalls on the peaks and a cloudy sky over the mountainous landscape.

Madrid Faces a Cold Weekend with Snowfalls in the Sierra

The Madrid region is under a mass of cold air that causes a generalized drop in temperatures. The sky will remain overcast, with a probability of scattered and weak precipitation across much of the territory. The atmosphere is fully wintery ❄️.

Snow Limited to High Areas of the Sierra

Snow precipitation is concentrated in the highest mountainous areas, especially in the Guadarrama sierra. The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) indicates that the snow level will be at mid-high levels, meaning it is not expected to reach the main population centers or lower-altitude roads.

Details on the snowfalls:
  • The snowfalls will be light and focused on the peaks of Guadarrama.
  • The snow level may fluctuate, but it will remain above the main valleys and towns.
  • It is recommended to check road conditions before traveling through mountain passes.
AEMET describes the phenomenon as light, although it warns of the widespread cold and instability.

Intense Cold and Unstable Weather Across the Region

Outside the sierra, the weather is characterized by a cloudy or overcast sky that may bring occasional rain. Both minimum and maximum temperatures are noticeably lower than in previous days, with values in many areas not exceeding single digits during the day.

Characteristics of the cold episode:
  • Maximum temperatures show a sharp drop across the entire community.
  • At night, frost may occur in inland areas and mountainous zones.
  • The atmospheric instability situation is likely to persist in the coming days.

Outlook and Recommendations

This weather scenario requires the population to take winter precautions, such as dressing warmly. While some prepare for the cold, others watch the peaks with anticipation, although snow accumulation will be minimal. AEMET's forecast indicates that the cold and unstable weather will persist, consolidating a winter phase

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