AEMET la Bestia del Este - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. AEMET, the Spanish meteorological agency, named the cold wave that hit Europe in late February and early March 2018 as "La Bestia del Este" (The Beast from the East).
- 2. The cold wave was caused by a sudden stratospheric warming event in the Arctic, which disrupted the polar vortex and allowed cold air to flow southward into Europe.
- 3. "La Bestia del Este" brought extremely cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and strong winds to many parts of Europe, including Spain, where AEMET issued weather warnings for snow and cold temperatures.
- 4. In Spain, the cold wave caused temperatures to drop significantly below average, with some areas experiencing record-breaking cold temperatures.
- 5. The cold wave also brought heavy snowfall to many parts of Spain, particularly in the northern and eastern regions, leading to travel disruptions and school closures.
- 6. AEMET warned of the potential health risks associated with the cold temperatures, including frostbite and hypothermia, and advised people to take precautions to stay warm and safe.
- 7. The cold wave also had a significant impact on agriculture, with crops and livestock suffering from the extreme cold temperatures and snowfall.
- 8. In response to the cold wave, authorities in Spain activated emergency protocols to help those most vulnerable, such as the homeless and elderly, cope with the harsh weather conditions.
- 9. The cold wave lasted for several days before temperatures began to gradually rise and the weather returned to normal.
- 10. "La Bestia del Este" served as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for extreme weather events, even in regions not typically associated with cold temperatures.