Storm Regina Affects the Entire Island: Safety First
Madeira is currently dealing with the effects of Storm Regina, a low-pressure system that has brought extremely strong winds and high waves. In response to an orange weather alert, authorities have implemented several precautionary measures that will affect most visitors’ plans. The main priority is safety, and we strongly advise adjusting your plans for today according to the current situation.
Air Travel: Canceled Flights at Funchal Airport (FNC)
Who is affected?
All passengers scheduled to arrive in or depart from Madeira today.
What does this mean in practice?
Due to strong crosswinds, more than 80 flights have already been canceled at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport. The airport terminal is overcrowded, with long queues forming at airline counters. The chance of any flights operating under these conditions is minimal.
What do we recommend?
- Do not go to the airport without checking first. Check the current status of your flight directly with your airline (via their mobile app or website).
- Be prepared to rebook your flight for the coming days.
- Be patient. This is a challenging situation for everyone involved.
For Trail Lovers: All Levadas and Recommended Routes (PR) are Closed
Who is affected?
Anyone who planned any kind of hike in nature – from easy walks along the levadas to challenging mountain treks.
What does this mean in practice?
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has officially closed all waymarked walking routes (PR) and levadas on the island. This measure includes the most popular spots, such as the trail from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, the levadas in the Rabaçal area (25 Fontes), and the hikes on the São Lourenço peninsula. The mountain road between Eira do Serrado and Pico do Areeiro is also closed. There is a real danger of falling trees, branches, and sudden landslides.
What do we recommend?
- Cancel your hike for today, without exception. Leave your hiking boots at the hotel.
- Respect the closures. Ignoring them puts not only yourself at risk but also potential rescue teams.
- Monitor the official Madeira Trail Status (IFCN) website for information on when the trails will reopen.
Practical Tips for a Safe Day
The Civil Protection authority has issued several recommendations for staying safe on the island:
- Limit driving: If you don’t have to, don’t drive. Especially avoid roads through forests and along steep slopes where there is a risk of falling rocks and branches.
- Stay away from the coast: High waves are unpredictable. Avoid coastal promenades, piers, and cliff-top viewpoints (e.g., Cabo Girão). Swimming in the ocean is life-threatening.
- Secure loose objects: If you have a balcony, clear it or firmly secure furniture, clothes drying racks, and other items that the wind could blow away.
- Choose an alternative activity: Today is a perfect day for indoor activities. Explore museums in Funchal (e.g., the CR7 Museum, Madeira Wine Museum), go shopping in the malls, or enjoy a relaxing day at your hotel’s spa.
Sources: RTP Madeira, Jornal da Madeira, IFCN, Diário de Notícias da Madeira
Suggestions for internal links:
- What to do in Funchal when it rains
- The most beautiful levadas in Madeira
- Weather in Madeira: When to visit the island
- Renting a car in Madeira: What to watch out for
- Mountain safety in Madeira