Severe Weather Disrupts Carnival Celebrations Across Spain
Severe storms and heavy rains have caused cancellations and postponements of carnival parades in Spain, with schools adapting celebrations amid challenging weather forecasts.
- • AEMET forecasts heavy rain, strong winds, and snow across Spain during carnival week.
- • Several primary schools in Daimiel canceled or postponed carnival parades due to bad weather forecasts.
- • Scheduled parade postponements are planned for mid to late February depending on weather.
- • Indoor celebrations are being favored to maintain carnival spirit and ensure safety.
Key details
Spain is currently grappling with severe weather conditions that have directly impacted the 2026 carnival celebrations. The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has warned of heavy rains, strong winds, and snow across various regions due to successive storms Marta, Leonardo, and the approaching storm Nils. Particularly affected are the western and northern parts of the peninsula, along with the Balearic Islands, where heavy precipitation and strong winds are forecasted through Friday. Temperatures will also drop, with snow expected in mountainous areas and frost in some northern and southeastern mountains.
These adverse conditions have led to significant disruptions in carnival events. In Daimiel, primary schools such as CEIP Infante Don Felipe, CEIP Calatrava, and CEIP Espinosa have canceled or postponed their traditional carnival parades. The Infante Don Felipe school's parade has been tentatively rescheduled to late next week, pending improved weather, while Calatrava and Espinosa plan to hold their parades on February 20, 2023, weather permitting. Meanwhile, CEIP La Albuera and CEIP San Isidro have opted for indoor festivities, with San Isidro's usual outdoor parades around the park also affected by the bad weather.
This weather disruption coincides with a key carnival weekend when outdoor festivities would normally flourish. AEMET anticipates a shift towards clearer skies and better conditions by Sunday, providing some relief and hope for rescheduled or ongoing events. Until then, schools and organizers are prioritizing safety by holding many celebrations indoors and postponing parades to ensure participant wellbeing while maintaining the carnival spirit.
This article was translated and synthesized from Spanish sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
