Storm Kristin crosses central peninsula and triggers severe weather in Madrid

Published on January 28, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Aerial or street-level photograph showing a main avenue in Madrid, such as Gran Vía or an access highway, covered by a blanket of fresh snow. Cars and buses are moving slowly, and people are seen walking with difficulty. The sky is gray and it continues to snow.

Storm Kristin crosses the central peninsula and causes a storm in Madrid

The low-pressure system named Kristin is moving through the interior of the peninsula, generating an episode of adverse weather with snow at unusually low altitudes, rain, and strong wind gusts that are intensely affecting the Community of Madrid. The State Meteorological Agency has activated weather risk warnings in several areas. ❄️

The capital is blanketed in white and mobility collapses

In the city of Madrid and its metropolitan area, snow is settling persistently from early hours, which is uncommon, covering streets and asphalt. This phenomenon forces emergency teams to act in dozens of situations to assist drivers and pedestrians. Traffic is severely complicated throughout the region and nearby provinces.

Main consequences of the storm:
  • Long traffic jams form and cuts occur on key highways like the A-6 and M-607, where trucks are immobilized.
  • Several town halls decide to suspend school activities in schools and institutes as a preventive measure.
  • Public transport, including buses and commuter trains, suffers considerable delays due to the conditions.
The authorities recommend avoiding any non-essential travel.

AEMET anticipates that the bad weather will persist

Official forecasts indicate that precipitations, in the form of snow in low areas and rain, will continue throughout the day accompanied by strong winds. Warnings are extended to other areas in central and northern Spain. Maintenance workers and emergency services are working tirelessly to clear roads and restore normality, although the storm itself is slowing their efforts.

Official recommendations for the population:
  • Stay attentive to communiqués and warnings issued by AEMET and Civil Protection.
  • Exercise extreme caution if it is necessary to go out, checking the vehicle's condition and equipment.
  • Be patient and follow the instructions of traffic agents and emergency services.

Between concern and the winter landscape

While some citizens take advantage to photograph the unusual white landscape in the capital, many others are urgently searching for tire chains they stored from the previous season. The episode reminds us of the importance of being prepared for these extreme weather phenomena. 🌧️💨