Andorra Hits Coldest Urban Morning in 5 Years at -17.2°C

Andorra recorded its coldest urban morning in at least five years on Wednesday, with VisualMeteo stations measuring -17.2°C at Fonts d'Arinsal, -11.3°C at Plans de Canillo, -9.9°C at La Cortinada, -9.8°C at Llorts, -9.4°C at Rubió, -7.8°C at Certés, -7.4°C at Encamp, -6.7°C at Escaldes Sa Calma, and -5.2°C in central Escaldes-Engordany. These represent the lowest readings in urban areas since 11 January 2021, when a cold spell persisted for around five days, although high-mountain locations may have experienced similar lows more recently.

The Servei Meteorològic d'Andorra maintained its yellow alert for low temperatures until noon Wednesday. Clear overnight skies intensified the freeze, but emerging sunshine and the gradual retreat of Arctic air led to a slight daytime recovery. Temperatures stayed below zero across the country despite the clear conditions.

The chill peaked amid Tuesday's Three Kings Day celebrations, under northerly winds and mostly sunny skies. Monday featured thinning clouds that gave way to clear conditions, with highs reaching 7°C in Andorra la Vella, 2°C at 1,500 metres, and -8°C at Pas de la Casa. Overnight lows fell to -1°C in the capital, -5°C at mid-altitudes, and -12°C at Pas de la Casa.

Tuesday remained frigid with stable weather and intermittent sun. Late-afternoon clouds from a front brushing northern peaks produced isolated snow flurries that cleared by early evening. Fresh snow improved conditions on higher ski slopes, while nearby Catalan lowlands faced icy roads from unexpected falls.

From midday Wednesday, northern clouds could bring scattered light snow from around 1,000 metres, rising to 1,700 metres overnight. Winds may briefly pick up in the far north during evening showers before easing with the departing cold air.