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Murcia has not seen a January this hot since 1960
This January was also the seventh driest of the 21st century in the Region of Murcia
The Region of Murcia experienced an exceptionally warm January, with temperatures reaching record highs not seen in at least 64 years. Moreover, the month was remarkably dry, ranking as the seventh driest January of the 21st century, according to the Climatological Advance report compiled by the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet).
But it was certainly a month for all seasons, beginning with a dominant high-pressure system in the south of the country while the north was lashed by storms. An Atlantic storm brought some much-needed rain to the Region on January 5 and 6, and the following week saw intense westerly winds and extensive cloud cover pull the temperatures right down.
In the aftermath of storms Irene and Juan, a powerful anticyclone descended on January 21, bringing with it bright, sunny weather and record-breaking temperatures well into the high 20s. Even after this front moved north, it continued to dictate the weather in the Region of Murcia for the rest of the month.
Temperature records in January
January’s monthly average temperature was 12ºC, which is 3.2ºC higher than the average value, making it the warmest January in at least 64 years. The previous record was held by 1966, with an average temperature of 11.5ºC.
Both the daily highs and lows contributed to this unusual warmth, with averages of 17.4ºC and 6.6ºC, respectively. These values surpassed the previous records observed in 1966, which were 16.5ºC and 6.4ºC, respectively.
The warmest days of the month were January 25 and 26, while the coolest day was January 12.
Noteworthy warm episodes occurred between January 1 and 4, and from January 13 to 19, and again from January 22 to 28. During these periods, maximum temperatures exceeded 20ºC on average in the Region, peaking at 25.3ºC on January 25.
The nights were also considerably warmer than usual.
The absolute highest daytime temperature was registered on January 29 at Alhama ‘Comarza’ weather station, where thermometers reached a staggering 28.6 ºC.
Rain levels
While everyone undoubtedly enjoys the balmy days, Murcia is in dire need of more rainfall if it’s to avoid drought measures. Unfortunately, last month that wasn’t to be and January 2024 has become the seventh driest of the 21st century.
Overall, just 8.6 litres per square metre (l/m2) of rain fell. During the hydrological year, which runs from October 2023 to January 2024, a total of 16.3l/m2 was registered, which represents only 13% of the average.
Find all the latest weather and climate change news here or join our Murcia Weather Watch Facebook group for regular updates
Image: Freepik
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