Alicante has experienced a rainy and chilly weekend as Storm Emilia sweeps across southwestern Spain, bringing unstable weather to the Mediterranean coast. Meteorologists predict that these conditions will persist until midweek, after which a high-pressure system is expected to return, ushering in milder, stable weather likely to last into the start of the Christmas holidays—assuming the forecast holds.
Storm Emilia and the Mediterranean Impact
Jorge Olcina, director of the Climatology Laboratory at the University of Alicante (UA), explained that Storm Emilia is accompanied by a pocket of cold air over the Gulf of Cádiz. “This cold air is moving toward the Mediterranean, creating atmospheric instability along the coast,” Olcina said. “While the heaviest rain and winds will affect Andalusia and the Canary Islands, Alicante will experience intermittent showers, cloudiness, and unstable weather from Saturday through Wednesday.”
On Saturday AEMET issued a yellow weather alert for Sunday along the northern Alicante coast, warning of rainfall accumulations of up to 30 litres per square meter in one hour and 60 liters in 12 hours. Though these amounts are significant locally, Olcina said that “for Alicante Province, this is not a situation of risk or extreme rainfall. It will simply temporarily alter the stable weather pattern dominated by the anticyclone in recent days.”
Temperature Trends and Weather Conditions
The upcoming days will see a noticeable shift in temperatures. Midday highs will be slightly lower due to cloud cover and occasional showers, while nighttime lows are expected to remain relatively mild. Rainfall will occur intermittently across the province, with slightly heavier showers in northern and inland areas. Olcina emphasized that “the rain will not be continuous or abundant, but scattered and manageable.”
The combination of easterly and northeasterly winds, cloud cover, and intermittent rainfall will create a wintry feel, though extreme cold is not expected. Snow levels remain high in the mountainous areas, making snowfall unlikely in most parts of the province.
Historical Context: Alicante Winters
Alicante’s winter weather is typically dominated by anticyclones, resulting in sunny skies and mild temperatures. However, periods of instability like the one brought by Storm Emilia are not uncommon. Historically, storms affecting Alicante in December have been less intense than those in northern Spain, but they can still disrupt travel and outdoor plans, particularly along the coast and in the northern and inland areas.
Local records show that December storms often bring short, sharp showers rather than prolonged heavy rainfall. For instance, in December 2010 and 2015, similar systems brought intermittent rain over several days, followed by a return of stable high-pressure conditions—a pattern that appears to be repeating with Emilia.
Looking Ahead to Christmas
From Thursday onwards, the anticyclone is forecast to return and remain in place at least until Christmas Day. If these predictions hold, residents can expect calm and sunny days, pleasant midday temperatures, and cooler nights—ideal conditions for holiday festivities. “For the first few days of Christmas, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the weather should be stable and comfortable, with mild days and cool nights,” Olcina said.
AEMET confirms this outlook, highlighting that after Saturday and Sunday’s unsettled weather, the high-pressure system will dominate, creating clear skies and light winds across the Valencian Community.
Advice for Residents and Visitors
- Travel: Motorists should remain cautious on Sunday, particularly along the northern Alicante coast, where rainfall may be heavier. Intermittent showers could make roads slippery.
- Outdoor Activities: While showers will be scattered, it is advisable to plan outdoor activities around potential rainy periods, especially from Saturday afternoon through Wednesday.
- Marine Conditions: Rough seas and heavy swells are expected off the coasts of Valencia and Alicante starting Saturday midday, so maritime activities should be approached with caution.
- Temperature Awareness: Daytime temperatures will be below average for mid-December, but nights will remain relatively mild, so layering clothing is recommended rather than heavy winter wear.
Summary
In short, Alicante Province despite the cloudy and slightly cooler weekend due to Storm Emilia, the region will not face extreme conditions. From Thursday onward, the return of the anticyclone promises stable, mild, and sunny weather—perfect for holiday preparations and celebrations.
With intermittent showers now giving way to calmer skies, residents can look forward to a classic Mediterranean winter: brief periods of rain followed by crisp, clear days. If the forecast holds, Christmas Day on La Zenia Beach will offer pleasant conditions, allowing locals and visitors alike to enjoy the festive season outdoors.
