Heat and UV Radiation: How to Plan Your Trips Today
Today in Madeira will be marked by high temperatures. Meteorologists have issued an orange warning for the mountain regions and a yellow warning for the coast due to a heatwave. While temperatures by the sea will reach ‘only’ 25°C, it will feel much hotter in the mountains. Additionally, there is a risk of an extreme UV index (9-10), meaning the sun is exceptionally strong.
What This Means for You
- For everyone: Avoid direct sun between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Drink copious amounts of water (more than usual), wear a hat, and use high-SPF sunscreen.
- For hikers in the mountains: We strongly advise against strenuous hikes on exposed ridges. The risk of sunstroke, heatstroke, and dehydration is extreme today.
Trail Status and Tips for Safe Hikes
PR1 Vereda do Areeiro: Open, but Best Avoided Today
The legendary traverse between the peaks of Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo (PR1) is officially open (only the western route through the tunnels), but you should steer clear of it today. There is virtually no shade or drinking water source on the trail, making it a dangerous trap in today’s heat.
Don’t Forget: Mandatory Reservations and Fees
To access any official hiking trail (PR) in Madeira, it is mandatory to have a pre-purchased online reservation from the Simplifica portal. The fees are €4.50 for standard trails and €10.50 for PR1.
So, Where Should You Go Today?
The ideal choices are the levadas hidden in the forests, where there is pleasant shade and cooler temperatures. We recommend areas like Rabaçal (Levada das 25 Fontes or Levada do Risco) or the forests around Ribeiro Frio. Even here, be sure to bring plenty of water.
Evening Culture: Free Jazz and Elegant Classics
After a hot day, relaxing in the shade with good music is just the ticket. Funchal comes alive tonight with two great events:
- Funchal Jazz Festival (free): The final day of the free program begins at 7:00 PM in the Municipal Garden (Jardim Municipal). Guitarist André Santos (7:00 PM) and singer Madalena Caldeira (8:15 PM) will perform. It’s an ideal opportunity to experience top-tier music in a pleasant atmosphere.
- Classical Music Concert: For lovers of classical music, a concert by the Ensemble XXI string orchestra will take place at the luxurious Royal Savoy hotel starting at 9:00 PM.
If you’re in the mood for local folklore, a presentation of a traditional festival will be held in the town of Camacha at 5:00 PM.
Traffic in Funchal: What to Watch Out For
Road Closure on Rua das Maravilhas
Who is affected: Drivers in the northern part of Funchal.
What’s happening: Due to water pipe repairs, traffic is restricted on Rua das Maravilhas (near number 23) until Saturday. Between 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM, police are directing traffic in an alternating one-way system.
Our recommendation: Avoid this area if you can. Expect delays and traffic jams. Use the highway bypass instead.
Increased Traffic Near the Choupana Stadium
Who is affected: Drivers and public transport passengers heading to the Monte area.
What’s happening: The major CR7 youth football tournament culminates today, which means increased bus and sports team traffic around the CD Nacional stadium.
Our recommendation: If you’re planning a trip on the cable car to Monte or a visit to the gardens there, allow for extra travel time.