elmundo.es
Spain's 2024-2025 Winter: Seventh Warmest and Sixteenth Driest on Record
Spain's 2024-2025 winter was the seventh warmest since 1961, averaging 7.8°C (1.2°C above the 1991-2020 average) and the sixteenth driest, with 145.9 l/m2 precipitation (77% of the norm). This follows six consecutive warmer-than-normal winters and springs, and zero cold waves were recorded for the second consecutive year.
- How does the winter of 2024-2025 fit into the broader context of Spain's recent climate trends, and what are the underlying causes?
- The unusually warm winter, part of a longer-term warming trend, aligns with the AEMET's prediction of above-normal temperatures for spring, particularly in coastal areas. The lack of cold waves for two consecutive winters reflects a significant shift in Spain's climate patterns. Dry conditions in much of the country also persisted during the winter.
- What are the key findings of AEMET's winter 2024-2025 climate summary regarding temperature and precipitation in Spain, and what are their immediate implications?
- Spain's winter of 2024-2025 was the seventh warmest on record, with a mean temperature of 7.8ºC, 1.2°C above the 1991-2020 average. This follows a trend of six consecutive warmer-than-normal winters and six consecutive warmer-than-normal springs, signifying a persistent warming pattern. No cold waves were recorded.
- What are the potential long-term impacts of this continued warming trend on Spain's environment, economy, and society, and what adaptation measures may be necessary?
- The continued warming trend in Spain, evidenced by consistently warmer winters and springs, suggests a significant climate change impact. The drier-than-normal conditions raise concerns about water resources and potential agricultural impacts. AEMET's prediction of above-normal spring temperatures indicates the trend is likely to continue, requiring adaptation strategies.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The report presents a neutral tone in its reporting of the weather data. While it highlights the unusually warm temperatures, it also includes data on lower temperatures and precipitation levels. The inclusion of both positive and negative data points prevents a one-sided perspective. The focus on consecutive warm winters does not present a biased view but simply reports a statistically significant pattern. The headline (if there was one) would play a larger role in framing bias.
Bias by Omission
The analysis focuses heavily on temperature data and gives less detailed information regarding other weather phenomena. While the report mentions precipitation, it lacks a comprehensive analysis of its impact beyond stating overall dryness or wetness. More detailed regional breakdowns of precipitation, especially regarding its distribution and intensity, would enhance the report. The report also lacks a discussion of extreme weather events outside of temperature. For example, while it mentions intense nocturnal frosts, it doesn't delve deeper into their impact, frequency, or geographic distribution.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article reports that winter 2024-2025 in Spain was the seventh warmest on record, with temperatures 1.2°C above the average. This aligns with the negative impacts of climate change, contributing to SDG 13 (Climate Action) by highlighting the ongoing increase in temperatures and its consequences. The prediction of warmer-than-normal temperatures in the spring further reinforces this negative impact. The unusually dry winter also contributes to concerns about water scarcity and drought, exacerbating climate change effects.