Madrid’s Holy Week Kicks Off with Cold and Wind
Madrid, March 28, 2026 – The start of Holy Week in the Community of Madrid will largely follow the pattern of peninsular weather, with strong wind gusts expected from this Saturday and a yellow alert issued for Sunday. Temperatures are set to drop to between 11 and 16 degrees Celsius for Palm Sunday, according to the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET).
Strong Winds and Temperature Drop Expected
AEMET forecasts that Saturday will be marked by probable very strong wind gusts in high areas of the Sierra from midday onwards. These winds will intensify on Sunday, leading to a yellow alert, blowing from the north, and potentially being strong to moderate in other areas for Palm Sunday.
Saturday’s weather will feature clear or mostly clear skies, except in the Sierra, where low cloud intervals are expected, and some scattered mist or fog banks cannot be ruled out. This situation will continue on Palm Sunday, with the addition of possible high clouds around midday, and again, morning mist and fog banks in the Sierra are not to be dismissed.
Palm Sunday to be Significantly Colder
Regarding temperatures, minimums will remain largely unchanged over the weekend, staying between 1 and 6 degrees Celsius, with the highest values in the capital and weak frosts in the Sierra on both days. The Community of Madrid is preparing for what AEMET describes as a “wintry” Palm Sunday.
Maximum temperatures will begin a slight descent on Saturday, becoming more moderate in the Sierra, where they will reach only 16 degrees Celsius. In other areas, temperatures could still reach up to 21 degrees Celsius. However, Palm Sunday will see the most significant drop, with temperatures oscillating between 11 and 16 degrees Celsius, a stark contrast to the nearly 20-degree values experienced earlier in the week.
Impact on Holy Week Celebrations
The colder temperatures and strong winds could potentially impact outdoor Holy Week celebrations and processions planned for the weekend. Authorities and organizers of religious events are likely to monitor the weather conditions closely to ensure the safety and comfort of participants and spectators.
Residents and visitors are advised to dress warmly and be prepared for windy conditions, especially if planning to attend any outdoor events or visit the Sierra region. The AEMET’s forecast highlights the need for vigilance as the region transitions into the festive yet potentially challenging weather period of Holy Week.
The current weather pattern is a significant change from the milder conditions observed throughout the week, setting a distinct tone for the beginning of one of Madrid’s most important annual cultural and religious events. The focus will now be on how these weather conditions will evolve and whether they will persist throughout the entire Holy Week period.
