Is It Rare to Snow in Madrid?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid during the winter months, you might be wondering whether or not it snows in the Spanish capital. The answer is yes, but it’s relatively rare.

Madrid is located in the center of Spain, at an altitude of 650 meters above sea level. The city has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. While it’s not uncommon for Madrid to experience cold temperatures during the winter, snowfall is relatively infrequent.

According to historical data from the Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), the average number of days with snowfall in Madrid is just two per year. However, this doesn’t mean that it never snows in the city.

In fact, Madrid has experienced some significant snowfalls in recent years. In January 2021, a record-breaking storm blanketed the city with up to 50 cm of snow, causing widespread chaos and disruption. The last time Madrid saw such heavy snowfall was back in 1971.

So why is snow so rare in Madrid? One reason is its location in the center of Spain. The country’s mountain ranges – including the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada – act as barriers that prevent much of the cold air and moisture from reaching Madrid.

Additionally, warm winds from Africa often blow over Spain during the winter months, further reducing the chances of snowfall in Madrid.

Despite its rarity, when it does snow in Madrid it can be a magical experience. The city takes on a completely different appearance as locals and tourists alike enjoy building snowmen and having snowball fights in iconic locations such as Retiro Park or Gran Via.

In conclusion, while it’s rare for Madrid to experience significant amounts of snowfall each year, it can happen. If you’re planning a winter visit to this beautiful city, be sure to pack accordingly and keep an eye on weather forecasts just in case!