What is DANA weather in Spain? What does DANA mean? What does "Gota Fria" mean?

What is DANA weather in Spain



Updated November 2024

What does DANA mean?


DANA is a Spanish acronym for Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos. It translates to"Isolated Depression at High Altitudes". A DANA is a high-altitude depression and different from common storms and possibly caused by climate change. 

A DANA is a type of weather phenomenon in which a "pocket" of cold air in the upper atmosphere separates from the main stream of air and sweeps over a warmer air mass. Basically a DANA is when cold and warm air meet and produce very big rain clouds which can hold a lot of moisture.

The average water temperature in the Mediterranean Sea has been rising in recent years. due to climate change. When cold air blows over the warm Mediterranean waters it makes hotter air to rise quickly to form big water-laden clouds that can stay over the same area for longer periods which increases their destructive potential. This DANA process can result in severe weather, including very heavy rains, and subsequent flooding. 

In recent years there has been an increase in heavy and torrential rains on the Mediterranean side of the Iberian peninsula, mostly recently in Valencia in November 2024 when a DANA caused flash floods, hail and tornadoes. The eastern and southern parts of Spain are more at risk of a DANA event due to being between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. This location means that warm, humid air masses meet cold fronts meet creating storm clouds and rainfall.

During a DANA alert, it is important to stay indoors if possible and if you are driving, be aware of flooding and strong water currents, especially in hilly and mountainous areas, where there is a high risk of mudslides and flash floods.

What does "Gota Fria" mean?


"La gota fría" is another Spanish expression often heard in connection with a DANA weather system. "La gota fría" literally means "the cold drop". This term refers to the same phenomenon as a DANA when a "pocket" or "drop" of cold air forms in the upper atmosphere and separates from the main stream.

"La gota fría" is a well-known expression in Spain, especially in the coastal regions where this phenomenon is common and can cause severe storms.


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Last Updated on Wednesday, 13 November 2024 11:44
 

Saturday, 21 December 2024


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