A cold snap rolling into Spain could bring a very rare episode of snow along the Costa del Sol.

Storm Francis forecast models suggest the snow line could drop to as low as 200 metres in some areas of the province.

If confirmed, Malaga could see a Three Kings Day marked by exceptionally cold conditions, with minimum temperatures below 5C and daytime highs of around 11C.

While snow typically falls at much higher elevations in winter, this unusually low line could bring the white stuff to low-lying inland areas of Malaga province.

In the city and along the Costa del Sol, however, forecasters say light rain or drizzle remains more likely than significant snowfall.

What the forecast currently shows

For January 6, Aemet predicts overcast skies, light rain and gusty winds, while the risk of precipitation begins to ease on January 7.

Even so, the agency’s automated forecasting system, which currently places the snow line at 200–300 metres – unusually close to sea level – has gone viral on social media, fuelling speculation among weather watchers.

Aemet explained on December 31 that a stationary low-pressure system over Scandinavia, combined with high pressure in the North Atlantic, is expected to open a corridor for northerly winds carrying Arctic air into the Iberian Peninsula from Saturday January 3.

This setup could trigger heavy rain and snow at mid-altitudes, with the possibility – though still uncertain – of snow affecting central Spain and even lower elevations in southern regions such as the Costa del Sol.

Meteorologists stress that there is still a high degree of uncertainty surrounding how the system will evolve and what impact it may have on outdoor activities over the coming days.

Aemet has urged the public to follow forecast updates closely, particularly with major events such as Three Kings celebrations approaching.