Where the rain and storms will be this May bank holiday weekend

Holidaymakers heading to Spain’s Mediterranean coasts this weekend should be prepared for a damp start to the holiday. Severe storms and heavy rain showers are forecast to sweep across eastern and southern provinces, potentially disrupting travel plans and outdoor celebrations at the beginning of the the long break.

National meteorological agency AEMET has issued alerts concerning an atmospheric trough of low pressure expected to lead to instability. While western regions might enjoy clearer skies, the Mediterranean coastline faces a much more volatile period with thunder and lightning appearing most likely on Friday. Heavy hail and strong gusts of wind could also come in around more mountainous zones during the height of the storm.

What’s in store for Valencia and Alicante?

Valencia and Alicante provinces sit directly in the path of the most intense weather activity. On the run up to the weekend, local forecasts are predicting a noticeable drop in temperatures as the storm front crosses the region, replacing recent warmth with a much chillier feel, so don’t put that duvet in the cupboard just yet. However, come Saturday afternoon, the skies should clear bringing patchy cloud and an altogether more pleasant weekend. Most of the severe weather will be over Valencia city, but much more pleasant further south.

Murcia will experience similar instability, with thick cloud cover dominating the skies throughout most of the weekend, unfortunately. Although, temperatures here are expected to remain relatively comfortable despite the chance of wet weather, though sudden electrical storms could force beachgoers to seek shelter at short notice.

Changeable skies over Malaga and Almeria

Malaga and Almeria provinces in the south can expect gusty winds to accompany the scattered showers. Strong easterly winds will create choppy sea conditions, making coastal walks or boat trips less appealing for those visiting the Costa del Sol or the Almerian shores. These provinces will see more sunshine than their northern and eastern neighbours, but the weather remains rather changeable.

Granada and its surrounding mountain ranges remain vulnerable to sharp afternoon rain. Sierra Nevada peaks could witness sudden cloud development, bringing heavy rain to the higher altitudes and cooler conditions to the city streets below. Hikers should exercise caution as conditions in the hills can change within seconds.

Rain to Hit Mallorca

Mallorca faces a noticeably cooler holiday weekend compared to recent weeks. Overcast skies and a high probability of showers will characterise the weekend, as the weather system moves across the Balearic Sea. Everyone should expect a mix of grey skies and brief sunny intervals between the rain.

In short, most of us are in for a pleasant, if occasionally soggy, long bank holiday weekend. Don’t forget that most shops and services will be closed for Friday, May 1, but open again as normal on Saturday.