Hurricane Kirk continues to gain strength in the Atlantic and has reached 4 category, becoming one of the most powerful hurricanes of the current season. Although it is not expected to directly hit the coasts of the Iberian Peninsula, there is a possibility that its effects will come in the form of heavy rain and winds in northwestern Spain, particularly in Galicia, over the next week.
Kirk has reached winds sustained speeds of up to 230 km/h, and its minimum central pressure has dropped to 935 hPa, making it an atmospheric phenomenon to take into account. Although its intensity is expected to begin to decrease as it moves north, the hurricane could transform into extratropical storm as it approaches Europe, which could still leave considerable consequences on the Spanish coasts.
Kirk's projected trajectory
Hurricane Kirk is moving northwest over the Atlantic, with a speed of translation of about 19 km/h. The meteorological forecasts indicate a turn towards the north-northwest this week, moment at which it will begin to weaken when it meets Colder waters and increased wind shear, factors that will weaken the system.
However, despite that weakening, Kirk is expected to reach Europe possibly at the beginning of next week, already converted into a extratropical storm. Although it is not expected to make direct landfall in Spain, its approach could bring side effects in the form of rain and wind, especially in the northwest of the country.
The National Hurricane Center has been closely monitoring Kirk's development and notes that the weather system has reached record intensity for having formed so far east in the Atlantic at this time of year. To better understand how these phenomena develop, you can consult our guide on the wind and its types.
Possible impacts in Spain
In the Iberian Peninsula, especially in Galicia and areas of the northwest, the effects of ex-Kirk could begin to be noticed from Tuesday. One of the fronts associated with what remains of Kirk is expected to enter Galicia, bringing with it a wave of rain. A more active front is also expected to cross the peninsula on Wednesday, leaving heavier rainfall in its path.
The areas most affected by the rains include Galicia, the Central System, the Pyrenees and western Andalusia. In addition, the system is also expected to generate strong winds, especially in the Cantabrian Coast, Castile and Leon, and mountainous areas of the Iberian system, where significant gusts could be recorded. The sea could also be rough in the Cantabrian Sea, which is why authorities recommend taking extreme precautions.
Forecasters stress the importance of closely monitoring daily model updates as Kirk's trajectory may change and affect other parts of Europe or Spain with greater intensity than expected.
Will Kirk pose a direct threat? Initial forecasts indicate that it will enter Europe through southwestern France, which would prevent it from making direct landfall on the peninsula. However, its indirect impact will be significant in several areas of northern Spain.
In short, although Kirk should not pose a direct threat of impact on land in Spain, its effects in the form of winds, waves and rains could be strongly felt, especially in Galicia and the Cantabrian Coast. The situation is evolving rapidly, and it is important to stay tuned for weather updates to follow the path of this powerful hurricane. Hopefully, its passage will not bring significant damage, but it is always better to be cautious and be prepared for what may happen in the coming days.