Big freeze: Red alert as severe storms sweep across Spain

A three-year-old boy was killed on Sunday after being hit on the head with a piece of building debris, most likely broken off due to strong winds recorded in the southwest province of Huelva, according to broadcaster RTVE.

A 73-year-old fisherman in Cantabria also went missing along the coast and severe weather conditions forced officials to suspend the search for him.

In Galicia, heavy snowfall blocked roads, stranding dozens of drivers who were forced to abandon their cars on Sunday night.

"A hug for our colleagues in Galicia after hours in the cold rescuing drivers trapped in the snow."

In Alicante, a 47-year-old wind surfer was dragged for 300 metres by strong winds, eventually landing on the roof of a cottage, according to newspaper Las Provincias. The ordeal caused the man to suffer a head injury and break his leg.

Damage like fallen trees and signs due to strong winds and rain was reported across other parts of Spain, including in the western province of Extremadura.

"Damage caused by the wind in Don Benito. Fortunately no damage to people."

Spain's weather service AEMET predicts that severe conditions will continue through Monday, with parts of northern and southern Spain on orange or "significant alert" for snow and high winds.

AEMET on Sunday also put Galicia, Asturias and Cantabria on red or "extreme risk" alert for wind and snow on Monday.

In an advisory posted last week by Spain's Commission for Civil Defense and Emergencies, the commission recommended staying away from coastal areas during intense winds and to check weather conditions before driving.

They also warned photographers not to risk their own safety by trying to snap a picture of high waves.

Last week a toddler was swept off a beach in Asturias by a giant wave.