Catalonia hit by 10 major storms in just six weeks

Climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events during the start of 2026.

Waves crashing against a breakwater during a sea storm.
IA

Waves crashing against a breakwater during a sea storm.

Catalonia has faced an unprecedented weather pattern in early 2026, with 10 major storms hitting the region in a month and a half due to climate change.

Since January, the region has seen a continuous succession of fronts including Francis, Harry, and Nils. These events have caused significant flooding, coastal damage, and record-breaking wind speeds across Barcelona and Girona.

"A warmer atmosphere is capable of holding more water vapor, leading to more abundant and extreme rainfall."

Rubén del Campo · Aemet Spokesperson
The storm Nils, which arrived in February, triggered the first-ever red alert for hurricane-force winds in the region, leading to the suspension of schools and non-urgent healthcare services.