Weather and Safety: What to Watch Out For Today
A yellow weather warning is in effect for today and the upcoming weekend. It primarily concerns strong winds in the mountains and dangerous sea conditions on the coast.
- Who is affected: All tourists, especially those planning hikes at higher altitudes or visiting the north and west coasts.
- What this means in practice: On the north coast (areas like Porto Moniz, Seixal, São Vicente) and the island of Porto Santo, waves are expected to reach heights of 4 to 5 meters. In the mountains, expect strong wind gusts, which will significantly lower the wind chill temperature and make movement on exposed ridges difficult.
- What we recommend: Swimming on the north and west coasts is strongly discouraged. Avoid walking on piers and breakwaters. The natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz may be closed for safety reasons. Also, be prepared for potential temporary suspensions of cable car services (e.g., to Monte or in Achadas da Cruz). For mountain hikes, bring a quality windbreaker.
Status of Hiking Trails and Levadas (PR)
Safety first. Local authorities (IFCN) have closed several of the most popular hiking trails due to maintenance and the risk of landslides. Always check the current status before any trip.
Key Closures and Restrictions:
- 🔴 PR1 Vereda do Areeiro (Areeiro ↔ Ruivo): LIMITED ACCESS. Madeira’s most famous mountain traverse is not fully passable! The path from Pico do Areeiro is only open up to the first tunnel and the Ninho da Manta viewpoint (approx. 1.2 km). The trail is closed beyond this point. Pico Ruivo can only be reached from Achada do Teixeira (PR 1.2).
- 🔴 PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde: CLOSED. One of the island’s most beautiful levada walks is completely closed. Do not attempt to enter.
- 🔴 PR10 Levada do Furado: CLOSED. The route from Ribeiro Frio to Portela is closed due to a landslide. The short walk to the Balcões viewpoint (PR11) from Ribeiro Frio is usually accessible.
- 🔴 PR1.3 Vereda da Encumeada: CLOSED. The connecting trail between Pico Ruivo and the Encumeada pass is also out of service.
- 🟢 Trails in the Rabaçal area (PR6, PR6.1): OPEN. The paths to the 25 Fontes (25 Fountains) and the Risco waterfall are reported as open. However, expect very slippery and muddy conditions.
Practical Tips and Other Island News
Life on the island continues without major disruptions. Airport operations are running as standard, and card payments are accepted without issue across the island. If you’re looking for something to do in Funchal this evening, we have a cultural tip for you.
- Who this is for: Visitors to Funchal and culture lovers.
- What’s happening: Tonight in Funchal, renowned Portuguese musician Rão Kyao will be performing. It’s a great opportunity to experience the local cultural scene.
- What we recommend: Check the schedule and ticket availability at the Baltazar Dias Theatre or the event’s venue. This could be the perfect plan for an evening when the weather in the mountains isn’t suitable for sightseeing.