News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain

weather

Severe Weather Alerts Issued Across Spain: Expats Advised to Take Precautions

Multiple Provinces Affected

Spain is bracing for a series of severe weather conditions, with eight provinces, including the autonomous city of Ceuta, placed under various alerts for heavy rains, storms, strong winds, and high waves. This weather system is expected to impact a significant portion of the country, particularly affecting expats and locals alike.

Weather Alerts and Affected Areas

As of the latest updates, the provinces of A Coruña, Lugo, Pontevedra, and Ourense in the Galicia region are on high alert for heavy rainfall and potential flooding. The Canary Islands, specifically the provinces of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas, are also under warning for strong winds and high waves.

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weather

Severe Winds Hit Cantabria: San Roque de Riomiera Records Second-Highest Wind Speed in Spain

In a dramatic display of nature's fury, the town of San Roque de Riomiera in Cantabria, Spain, has experienced the second-highest wind speed recorded in the country. On March 20, 2023, the region was battered by intense winds, part of a broader weather phenomenon known as the "coriscao," a type of strong, cold wind common in the Cantabrian Mountains.

The Storm's Impact

The winds in San Roque de Riomiera reached staggering speeds of up to 139 km/h, making it one of the most severe wind events in recent Spanish history. This extreme weather condition has left a significant impact on the local community, with reports of damaged infrastructure, disrupted daily life, and concerns for public safety.

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weather

Spain Braces for Severe Weather as Storm Martinho Wreaks Havoc

Spain is on high alert as Storm Martinho, the fourth major storm to hit the country in less than two weeks, brings heavy rain, strong winds, and the risk of further flooding across the nation.

Widespread Alerts and Evacuations

The storm, which has been battering Spain since March 21, has prompted widespread weather warnings, with yellow and orange alerts issued for large parts of the country. Central Spain, particularly the regions of Toledo and Talavera de la Reina, are facing critical flood risks as the Tajo River has swollen significantly, with water flow exceeding 950 cubic meters per second. This has led to the evacuation of around 30 residents in Escalona and other nearby towns in Castilla-La Mancha[1][2].

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demographics

Spain Sees First Increase in Birth Rate in a Decade, But Regional Variations Highlight Ongoing Demographic Challenges

After a decade of declining birth rates, Spain has witnessed a modest but significant increase in the number of births in 2024. This shift, although small, marks a crucial turning point in the country's demographic landscape.

National Trends

According to data from the National Statistics Institute (INE), a total of 322,034 babies were born in Spain in 2024, representing a 0.4% increase (1,378 more births) compared to the previous year. This rise is largely attributed to net migration, which has seen over 642,000 people move to Spain in the last two and a half years, one of the highest immigration rates in Europe[1][2].

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food-drink

Spain's Top Olive Oils Shine at the 2025 NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition

As the results of the 2025 NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition continue to roll out, Spanish olive oil producers are celebrating a stellar performance, highlighting the country's dedication to quality and excellence in the industry.

A Year of Challenges and Triumphs

The 2024/25 crop year has been marked by significant challenges, including excessive heat, drought, and unseasonable rainfall. Despite these hurdles, Spanish producers have managed to deliver exceptional quality olive oils. In Spain, olive oil production increased by more than 60 percent after consecutive years of historically poor harvests, making this year's awards particularly noteworthy[1].

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entertainment

The Gipsy Kings Return with a New Tour and Timeless Music

In a thrilling announcement for music lovers in Spain and beyond, the legendary Gipsy Kings are set to embark on a new tour, bringing their unique blend of flamenco, salsa, and pop music back to the stages. This highly anticipated return features not just one, but four of the most iconic families associated with the Gipsy Kings.

A Legacy of Music

The Gipsy Kings, known for their energetic live performances and hit songs like "Bamboleo" and "Volare," have been a staple of Spanish music for decades. The group was formed in the 1970s by two families: the Reyes and the Baliardo. Over the years, they have captivated audiences worldwide with their infectious rhythms and soulful vocals.

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