Madrid capital has woken up this Monday, January 5, 2026, to an unexpected early Three Kings’ Day gift. A light snowfall began around four in the morning, covering parts of the city with a delicate white blanket. Despite the wintry scene, no significant incidents have been reported, largely thanks to a proactive response from the City Council.
City Council’s Preventive Measures Ensure Smooth Operations
According to Emergencias Madrid, snow began to fall across all districts of the capital around 4:00 AM. Crucially, traffic incidents were avoided due to a comprehensive preventive operation launched by the Madrid City Council. This operation, which commenced at 8:00 PM on Sunday, involved 154 machines actively spreading salt on main roads and strategic locations, including hospital accesses and tunnels. In total, over 800 cubic meters of salt and brine were deployed to prevent ice formation and ensure road safety.
The municipal Operational Coordination Center (CECOPAL) of the City Council maintained a monitoring group throughout the night. This group received real-time information from all services, enabling swift decision-making to manage the situation effectively.
Temperatures Remain Low, More Snow Possible
The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) forecasts for Madrid city on Monday include minimum temperatures of -1ºC, with maximums not exceeding 5ºC. These low temperatures mean that any light precipitation throughout the day could easily turn into snow, potentially maintaining or even increasing the white covering on the streets. Residents are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about weather updates.
Winter Arrives in Force After the Holiday Season
The snowfall marks a definitive end to the festive Christmas season and a full-fledged entry into winter for Madrid. While the city often experiences cold temperatures and occasional frost during this period, significant snowfall in the capital itself is less common, making this morning’s scene a notable event for many residents.
The timely and effective response from city services has been crucial in mitigating potential disruptions. The focus on main arteries and critical infrastructure, such as hospital access points, highlights the city’s preparedness for such weather conditions.
Looking Ahead: Continued Vigilance Advised
With temperatures expected to remain low, the possibility of further snowfall or icy conditions persists. Authorities continue to recommend that citizens consult official weather forecasts and traffic information before undertaking journeys. The early deployment of resources and continuous monitoring by CECOPAL underscore the commitment to public safety during this period of inclement weather.
The current weather pattern aligns with a broader trend of colder temperatures affecting central Spain, as noted by AEMET in recent days. While the immediate impact in Madrid has been managed, the region as a whole is bracing for a sustained period of winter weather. [elespanol.com](https://www.elespanol.com/madrid/sociedad/20251202/confirmado-aemet-alerta-nieve-madrid-temperaturas-debajo-grados-proximas-horas-trt/1003744038366_0.html) and [eltiempo.es](https://www.eltiempo.es/noticias/nieve-en-la-sierra-y-lluvia-contenida-en-la-capital-madrid-se-instala-en-el-invierno-a-lo-grande) previously reported on alerts for snowfall in the Sierra and below-zero temperatures for the Community of Madrid, indicating a transition into a more severe winter climate. The current event in the capital is a direct manifestation of these anticipated conditions. [elconfidencial.com](https://www.elconfidencial.com/el-tiempo/2025-12-03/el-tiempo-en-madrid-miercoles_4259078/) also detailed forecasts for continued low temperatures and potential precipitation.
Source: [epe.es](https://www.epe.es/es/madrid/20260105/madrid-capital-nieve-manto-invierno-125378341)
