Travel and Weather: Wind Paralyses Airport and Affects Hikes
The main news today is the strong wind that has hit the island’s east coast, causing significant problems for air travel. A weather warning is also in effect for the mountainous regions.
Problems at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport
Wind gusts of up to 77 km/h have prevented several aircraft from landing safely. The situation directly affected passengers from the Czech Republic – after a failed landing attempt, their flight was diverted first to Porto Santo and then to the Canary Islands.
- Who is affected? All passengers arriving in or departing from Madeira today.
- What does this mean in practice? Expect significant delays, diversions, or even flight cancellations.
- What do we recommend? Before heading to the airport, check the current status of your flight with your airline or on the airport’s website (ANA Aeroportos). Stay in contact with your airline.
Yellow Warning: Heat and Strong Winds in the Mountains
Meteorologists have issued a yellow warning for high temperatures and strong winds. While the coast enjoys pleasant temperatures of 26°C and a water temperature of around 23°C, winds of up to 45 km/h are expected in the mountains and on the island’s eastern and western capes.
- Who is affected? Primarily hikers planning mountain tours (e.g., to Pico do Areeiro).
- What does this mean in practice? The wind can be very unpleasant and dangerous on exposed ridges. Combined with the sun, there is a risk of rapid dehydration. Waves of up to 2.5 meters are expected on the north coast.
- What do we recommend? For hikes, bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen. Consider less exposed routes if you are not accustomed to strong winds.
Current Trail Conditions
PR 1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro ↔ Pico Ruivo)
The Madeira Forest and Nature Conservation Institute (IFCN) confirms that the trail between the two highest peaks is open with restrictions. It is necessary to register and pay the fee online in advance.
- Who is affected? Anyone planning to take on the island’s most famous mountain hike.
- What does this mean in practice? The eastern route via Pico das Torres (“Vereda este”) is permanently CLOSED for safety reasons (landslides). Only the western route through the tunnels (“Vereda oeste”) is passable.
- What do we recommend? Book your entry in advance on the SIMplifica platform. Strictly follow the marked western path on the trail and do not enter the closed section under any circumstances.
Practical Information from Funchal and Surroundings
Water Outage in Upper Funchal
Due to a burst water pipe, the water supply has been interrupted in the higher areas of the Santa Maria Maior parish. Repairs are expected to take approximately 10 hours.
- Who is affected? Tourists staying in hotels, guesthouses, and apartments in this area (e.g., near the Botanical Garden or Palheiro Golf).
- What does this mean in practice? You will likely be without running water today.
- What do we recommend? Stock up on bottled water for drinking and basic hygiene.
Culture and Sports: Summer Opening Festival and Kayak Races
The summer event season is here. This week (July 2–4), the island’s largest music festival, Summer Opening, takes place in Santa Catarina Park in Funchal, with over 18,000 tickets already sold. Additionally, tomorrow (July 1) from 9:00 AM, you can watch exciting sea kayak races in the Bay of Funchal directly from the promenade.
- Who is affected? Lovers of music, festivals, and sporting events.
- What does this mean in practice? It’s a great opportunity to experience the local atmosphere. Expect increased foot traffic around Santa Catarina Park and on the main promenade (Avenida do Mar).
- What do we recommend? If you want to attend the festival, buy your tickets online as soon as possible. The kayak races are best enjoyed from one of the cafés along the promenade.