Madrid has just surpassed 70 consecutive days without significant rainfall, making it one of the driest summers on record in the city. The lack of precipitation has increased the sensation of heat and environmental dryness, with maximum temperatures that have been close to or above 32 °C and minimum temperatures that have gradually decreased, marking a gradual transition to autumn.
However, the situation may change soon. According to official AEMET forecasts for the coming week, a sharp drop in temperatures is expected, from the current values (highs of 34 °C) to about 22-24 °C between Sunday and Monday. On Sunday, there is a 50% probability of rain, with values that increase occasionally in the afternoon, while relative humidity rises to 80% during some parts of the day; a clear sign of an imminent meteorological change and possible relief after weeks of drought.
Rain returns to Madrid
According to updated data from the AEMET, today from 18 h there is a 50% chance of precipitation. Also from Sunday and throughout the week we could see new rainfall – albeit intermittent – and a stabilization of maximum temperatures below 30 ° C, accompanied by variable wind and milder thermal sensation. Atmospheric models and local meteorologists agree that, although the rainfall episode may be brief and localized, it will be enough to break the dry trend and help to partially recharge aquifers and urban reservoirs.
Despite more than 70 days without rain in Madrid, the situation of the reservoirs remains favorable and stable in historical terms. The thirteen reservoirs managed by Canal de Isabel II started September at 80.4% of their maximum capacity, almost 14 points above the usual average for these dates. This figure is the fifth best record in the last 30 years and is explained both by the abundant spring rains and by the moderate consumption of water, which has fallen even more this summer.