The Atlantic Shows Its Strength
Monday, March 23rd, on Madeira is marked by the low-pressure system Therese, which has brought heavy rain and strong winds to the island. The situation is affecting all aspects of travel – from air transport and road travel to hiking. Here is a summary of the most important things you need to know today.
Airport Disruption: Check Your Flight Status
Who is affected?
All passengers scheduled to arrive in or depart from Madeira today.
What does this mean in practice?
The adverse weather, especially strong gusty winds, is causing significant complications at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC). Dozens of flights from airlines like TAP, easyJet, and Ryanair have been delayed, diverted to other airports, or cancelled entirely. Air traffic is severely disrupted.
What we recommend:
Before heading to the airport, check the current status of your flight directly with your airline (via their app or website) or on the official airport website (ANA Aeroportos). Expect potential changes to your schedule and be prepared to improvise.
Extreme Caution on the Roads
Who is affected?
All drivers, especially tourists with rental cars.
What does this mean in practice?
Intense rainfall is making roads extremely slippery and causing deep puddles to form. In mountainous and coastal areas, there is an increased risk of rockfalls (derrocadas) and falling branches onto the road. The Civil Protection has issued a warning that is valid at least until tomorrow morning.
What we recommend:
- Significantly reduce your speed and increase the distance between vehicles.
- Avoid parking under trees and near unsecured rock faces.
- If not absolutely necessary, consider postponing longer car journeys.
Hiking Trails and Levadas: Many Paths Are Closed
Who is affected?
All hiking, trekking, and levada enthusiasts.
What does this mean in practice?
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has closed a large number of official hiking trails (PR) for safety reasons. The ground is waterlogged, unstable, and there is a risk of landslides and falling trees. Entering closed areas is extremely dangerous and life-threatening.
List of Major Closed/Restricted Trails:
- PR 1 Vereda do Areeiro: The trail between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo is only partially passable.
- PR 9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde: Completely closed.
- PR 1.3 Vereda da Encumeada: Completely closed.
- PR 5 Vereda das Funduras: Completely closed.
- PR 7 Levada do Moinho: Completely closed.
What we recommend:
Postpone any planned hikes. Respect the safety tape and entry prohibitions – do not take risks. You can check the current status of all trails on the official IFCN website. Today is an ideal opportunity to visit museums in Funchal or the indoor markets.
Note: Please also be aware that an entrance fee of €3 has been introduced on some newly opened trails in Madeira for non-residents over the age of 12.