Almond trees in northeastern Spain started to bloom in late January, nearly three weeks earlier than usual.

Local officials attribute the unseasonably early bloom to warm temperatures driven by climate change.

"Climate change directly affects the progress of flowering. We have had several decades of intense winters with cold and fog, with winters that are practically spring-like. This year, for example, we could perhaps count the days that have been frosty with the fingers of one hand," said Francesc Rosset, Head of Arbeca's Environment Office.

Spain, one of the world’s largest producers of almonds, enjoys a Mediterranean climate, perfect for almond cultivation. The country produces both sweet and bitter varieties, with the warm, dry summers and mild winters offering ideal conditions for almond trees. Normally, almond trees begin to bloom in early spring, with their white or pink flowers signaling the start of the growing season, often before the trees even grow leaves.

Despite the early bloom, many locals and tourists have taken advantage of the situation, visiting almond tree fields to enjoy and photograph the flowers.

“I’m so happy. When I see all the flowers, and the bees and the insects, and the trees. Yes, that’s why we are here,” said Wilma Van Den Heuvel, a Dutch tourist.

This year marks the second-earliest bloom on record since 1981, with only 1993 surpassing it. 

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