The Rain in Spain: March Showers Bring Gloomy Surprise to Students

For the past two weeks, relentless rain has drenched Spain, with forecasts predicting another week of downpours. In March, Madrid typically sees 44 liters of rainfall per square meter, but this year, over 50 liters fell in just the first six days—boosting reservoir levels by 7.5% according to El País, Spain’s largest public newspaper. 

Ava Borvice spent part of her childhood in Madrid and knows its shifting seasons well. She is also used to walking the city and taking public transport.

“My friends are struggling with all the walking in the rain since they’re more used to driving,” Borvice says. 

It’s true that Madrid is better known for its warm, sunny climate, where terraces overflow with locals enjoying drinks under clear skies. When the downpours began, many initially stayed indoors, waiting for the rain to pass. But Madrileños have since adapted, going about their daily routines despite the persistent showers.

Joseph Oscilowski is attempting to adjust to spending less time outside.

“Normally, I’d sit on a terrace or lounge in Retiro Park,” he says. “I don’t hate the rain, but I’d rather it be more occasional.” However, Oscilowski did manage a brief escape to the Canary Islands, where the sun was shining. “I felt much happier there with the sun.”

For Sadie Sack, who hails from Portland, Oregon—where winter rains are the norm—the reaction of locals has been interesting to observe.

“Everyone here uses umbrellas, while back home, people just wear waterproof coats and boots,” Sack notes. “At the Women’s Day march this weekend, I saw people struggling with their umbrellas, especially in the wind. It seems like people here aren’t used to this kind of weather.” Still, the rain didn’t dampen spirits—more than 80,000 people attended, according to estimates by the 8M Commission.

While many are feeling drained by the gray skies, Atang Lonkokile is reveling in the rain.

“Most people don’t like it, but I love it—especially when playing football. The field is slicker, you can slide, and falling doesn’t hurt as much,” he says. 

Similarly, Rajal Parmar has found amusement in the rain: “My regular cafe has become the perfect spot for people-watching—seeing passersby leap over puddles has been entertaining. Inside, it’s so warm and cozy, I have a newfound appreciation for it. It feels like a safe haven.”

Beyond this weekend, the weather forecast looks more promising. The sun is expected to break through the clouds, bringing life back to Madrid’s streets and terraces. But, as Lonkokile notes, “Sunny days wouldn’t be as special without the rain.”