Yellow alert in Spain: The 4 PM ‘storm window’ that could bring hail and 80km/h winds today

A series of Yellow Alerts from AEMET for Saturday, April 18, 2026, warns of “locally intense” thunderstorms and hail hitting the interior of Spain this afternoon. Driven by unseasonably high temperatures of 30°C clashing with cold air at altitude, the most significant risks are in Castilla y León, Madrid, and La Rioja, where wind gusts may exceed 80 km/h.

Meteorologists emphasize that these storms are convective, meaning they can develop in just 30 minutes, turning a clear sunny day into a hazardous weather event. Residents and weekend travelers are advised to monitor the radar between 4:00 PM and 9:00 PM, as sudden downpours of 20 liters per m² are expected to hit inland regions.

Specific areas at risk from storms and hail

The warning focuses on central, eastern and northern inland areas, including:

• Castilla-La Mancha
• Madrid region
• Interior of Valencia and Murcia
• Parts of Aragón and Catalonia

These areas could see locally strong thunderstorms, with hail and wind gusts that may exceed 60 km/h in short bursts. Coastal zones, including much of the Mediterranean coast, are expected to remain more stable overall, although isolated storms cannot be ruled out later in the day.

Rapid weather changes expected from Friday to Sunday

AEMET indicates that instability will begin to build on Friday before becoming more widespread on Saturday. Conditions are expected to remain unsettled into Sunday, depending on how the system evolves.

This pattern means that clear skies in the morning could quickly give way to storm activity later in the day, particularly inland. The combination of warm surface air and colder air at higher altitudes is creating the conditions for convective storms, which are known for their sudden and unpredictable nature.

What this means for travel and daily plans

For residents and expats, the main concern is how quickly conditions can change. Sudden downpours and hail may reduce visibility and make roads hazardous, particularly on inland routes and in elevated areas.

Anyone planning travel or outdoor activities over the weekend is advised to check local forecasts regularly and remain alert to updates, as storm activity is expected to be localised but potentially intense.