Weather: Rain, Wind, and Snow in the Mountains
Madeira is currently facing low-pressure system Therese, which is bringing very adverse weather conditions. A yellow warning for rain is in effect for the entire island, with snowfall and sub-zero temperatures expected at the highest elevations above 1400m (areas like Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo).
Who is affected?
All visitors to the island, especially those planning mountain trips and outdoor activities.
What does this mean in practice?
In the mountains, there is a risk of hypothermia, slipping, and becoming stranded due to snow cover. On the coast, especially in the north of the island, waves can reach heights of up to 10 meters, which is life-threatening.
What do we recommend?
We strongly advise against undertaking any hiking trips. Avoid mountain peaks, coastal promenades, and cliffs.
Transportation: Problems at the Airport and at Sea
Strong winds and rough seas are significantly complicating the transportation situation on the island.
Air Travel
Who is affected? Passengers arriving in or departing from Madeira today, or those awaiting the arrival of loved ones.
What does this mean in practice? Strong winds are complicating landings at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport. Expect significant delays, flight diversions to other islands (Porto Santo, Canary Islands), or even complete cancellations.
What do we recommend? Before heading to the airport, be sure to check the current status of your flight directly with your airline, for example, in its mobile app.
Ferry to Porto Santo
Who is affected? Tourists who planned a trip to the island of Porto Santo today.
What does this mean in practice? The Porto Santo Line company has canceled all of today’s sailings between Funchal and Porto Santo due to extremely high waves. Whale watching boat trips are also canceled.
What do we recommend? If you have purchased tickets, contact the operator to reschedule or request a refund.
Hiking Trails: List of Currently Closed Paths
Adverse weather and recent landslides have led the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) to close several popular routes. Moving around in the terrain is generally dangerous today.
Who is affected?
All fans of hiking, levadas, and mountain treks.
Which trails are officially closed?
For safety reasons, the following recommended routes (PR) are currently impassable and officially closed:
- PR 1.3 – Vereda da Encumeada
- PR 7 – Levada do Moinho
- PR 10 – Levada do Furado
- PR 16 – Levada Fajã do Rodrigues
- PR 18 – Levada do Rei
What do we recommend?
Respect the closures and do not enter these trails. Even on other, officially open paths, there is an increased risk of falling rocks and landslides. It is best to spend today away from nature.
Practical Tips for Today
Alternative Activities in the City
Instead of hiking, consider visiting indoor attractions in Funchal. Ideal options include the Mercado dos Lavradores market, the CR7 Museum, the Madeira Story Centre, or one of the many wine cellars for a Madeira wine tasting.
Check Your Accommodation in Funchal
Who is affected? Tourists staying in short-term rentals (like Airbnb/Booking apartments) in Funchal.
What does this mean in practice? The city council is inspecting licenses, and some accommodations are at risk of having theirs revoked. There is a small risk of last-minute booking cancellations.
What do we recommend? For peace of mind, you can send a short message to your host to confirm that their license is in order.