Weather Analysis

Weather Guide for the 2028 Eclipse

A January annular eclipse over central Spain means variable winter weather. Cloud cover averages 35-42%, making a mobility plan essential for this event.

January Climate Overview

The 2028 annular solar eclipse crosses central Spain on January 26, deep in the heart of winter. This is a fundamentally different weather challenge compared to the summer eclipses of 2026 and 2027.

January in central Spain brings Atlantic weather systems that sweep across the Iberian Peninsula, bringing clouds, rain, and occasionally snow to higher elevations. The Azores High that guarantees summer sunshine is weaker and shifted southward, leaving central Spain exposed to frontal passages.

Cloud cover across the eclipse path averages 35-42%, which means roughly 4 out of 10 days are cloudy. These are not terrible odds, but they demand preparation. The good news: January weather is highly variable, and clear spells between fronts can produce brilliant blue skies across the meseta.

Temperatures will be cool but manageable, ranging from 6-10°C (43-50°F). The eclipse occurs during the middle of the day when temperatures are at their peak, so you won't be in extreme cold.

Annular Eclipse — Not Total

The 2028 event is an annular eclipse, not a total eclipse. The Moon will not fully cover the Sun, creating a spectacular "ring of fire" effect. Because the Sun is never fully blocked, you must use eclipse glasses throughout the entire event — there is no moment when it is safe to look without protection.

City-by-City Weather Comparison

Sorted by cloud cover (best to worst). Data based on January historical averages.

City	Region	Cloud Cover	Avg Temp	Precipitation	Annularity	Rating
Madrid	Community of Madrid	35%	7°C	37 mm	9m50s	Best Available
Salamanca	Castilla y León	36%	7°C	22 mm	8m48s	Fair
Segovia	Castilla y León	37%	6°C	23 mm	9m06s	Fair
Guadalajara	Castilla-La Mancha	38%	6°C	33 mm	9m36s	Fair
Toledo	Castilla-La Mancha	38%	9°C	25 mm	9m24s	Fair
Cáceres	Extremadura	40%	9°C	55 mm	9m18s	Fair
Badajoz	Extremadura	42%	10°C	48 mm	9m00s	Challenging

Best Weather Strategy

Top Pick: Madrid

Madrid has the lowest cloud cover (35%) on the path, thanks to the central meseta's continental climate. The capital also offers the best transport infrastructure — if weather deteriorates, you can quickly drive toward clear skies via the extensive highway network. With 9m 50s of annularity, Madrid is the practical choice.

Runner-Up: Guadalajara

Just 60 km northeast of Madrid, Guadalajara sits at 38% cloud cover with excellent center-line positioning. Being just off the A-2 motorway makes it easy to combine with a Madrid-based trip. A viable day-trip option for those staying in the capital.

The Mobility Plan Is Essential

Unlike the 2027 eclipse, you cannot rely on climate statistics alone for 2028. Winter weather in central Spain changes rapidly — a front can clear in hours. Base yourself in Madrid and be ready to drive in any direction. The eclipse path is extremely wide, and the annularity lasts nearly 10 minutes, so you have flexibility.

Silver Lining: Winter Fronts Move Fast

Spanish winter weather is characterized by fast-moving Atlantic fronts. A cloudy morning can turn into a brilliant afternoon as a front clears through. Do not despair if the dawn looks grey — conditions can change dramatically by midday when the eclipse occurs.

What Cloud Cover Percentages Mean

35%: Best Available

About 6-7 clear days out of 10. These are good odds for a winter eclipse. Madrid falls in this range, making it the safest bet on the path.

38-40%: Fair

Roughly 6 clear days out of 10. Still reasonable odds, but you should monitor forecasts closely and have a backup location in mind.

42%+: Challenging

Nearly a coin flip. Badajoz and western Extremadura are more exposed to Atlantic weather systems. A mobility plan is critical here.

For Comparison

The 2027 summer eclipse has 7-12% cloud cover — roughly 3-5 times better odds than the 2028 winter eclipse. Approach 2028 with a flexible, mobile mindset.

January in Central Spain

Central Spain's winter weather follows a pattern of 3-5 clear days followed by 1-2 days of frontal cloud and rain. If you arrive a few days early, you can observe this rhythm and get a feel for whether a front will be passing through on eclipse day.

Eclipse-Day Weather Tips

Start Monitoring Weather 7 Days Out

Winter forecasts in Spain are reasonably reliable 5-7 days ahead. Use AEMET (Spain's meteorological agency), meteoblue, and the GFS/ECMWF models to track incoming fronts. By 3 days out, you should have a clear picture of eclipse-day conditions.

Rent a Car — It Is Non-Negotiable

For the 2028 eclipse, a rental car is essential, not optional. You may need to drive 100-200 km from your base to find clear skies. Book your rental well in advance, as demand will spike around eclipse week.

Know Your Escape Routes

From Madrid, you can reach clear skies in multiple directions: south toward La Mancha (A-4), east toward Guadalajara/Cuenca (A-2/A-40), or southwest toward Extremadura (A-5). Study the map and have 2-3 backup locations pre-planned.

Check Satellite Imagery at Dawn

On eclipse morning, check real-time satellite imagery from EUMETSAT. Clear gaps between cloud bands are often visible and predictable several hours in advance. The eclipse occurs around midday, giving you time to relocate.

Dress Warmly and Bring Supplies

January temperatures of 6-10°C can feel much colder with wind. Wear layers, bring warm drinks in a thermos, and have blankets or camping chairs. You may be waiting outdoors for 2-3 hours through the partial phases. Gloves that work with touchscreen devices are helpful for photography.

The Long Annularity Is Your Friend

The 2028 annular eclipse lasts up to 9 minutes 50 seconds — extremely long for an annular eclipse. This means even brief breaks in the clouds can give you a stunning view of the "ring of fire." You do not need sustained clear skies; even a few clear minutes during annularity will be rewarding.

Explore Eclipse Cities

Compare all cities on the 2028 annular eclipse path with detailed guides on weather, transport, and viewing locations.

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