The winter season can be quite unpredictable, and this year, Madrid was hit with an unprecedented cold wave. The temperature dropped to levels that the city had not experienced in decades, leaving the residents and visitors alike shivering in their boots.
How cold did it get?
The lowest temperature recorded during this cold wave was -13°C (8.6°F), which is the lowest temperature recorded in Madrid since 1985. The cold wave lasted for almost a week, and during this time, the temperature remained below freezing point for most of the day.
What were the effects?
The effects of this cold wave were felt throughout Madrid. The roads were icy, making it difficult for people to commute.
Many flights were canceled or delayed due to the weather conditions. The homeless population was hit particularly hard as they had to struggle to find shelter from the bitter cold.
But what caused this extreme weather?
This extreme weather was caused by a phenomenon called the Polar Vortex. It is a large area of low pressure and cold air that surrounds both of Earth’s poles. This year, the Polar Vortex split into two parts, with one part moving towards Europe and causing extreme weather conditions in many countries including Spain.
How did people cope with the cold?
Despite the challenging circumstances posed by this cold wave, people in Madrid came together to help each other out. Many volunteers worked tirelessly to provide food and shelter to those who needed it. The authorities also took several measures to ensure public safety, such as gritting salt on roads and placing heaters in public places.
The Takeaway
The winter season can be unpredictable, but it’s always important to be prepared for extreme weather conditions like these. Make sure you have warm clothing and blankets on hand, stock up on non-perishable food items, and stay informed about weather updates. And, most importantly, don’t forget to lend a helping hand to those in need during times of crisis.