High Winds Disrupt Travel: Situation at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport
Adverse weather, particularly strong winds, have been paralyzing operations at Funchal’s international airport since this morning. Dozens of flights, including services from airlines like TAP and Ryanair, have been cancelled or diverted. Disruptions are expected to continue throughout the day.
Who is affected?
All travellers scheduled to arrive in or depart from Madeira today.
What This Means in Practice
- Expect significant delays and cancellations.
- The airport operator, ANA Aeroportos, warns that the situation is volatile.
What You Should Do
We strongly advise you not to travel to the airport until you have confirmed the current status of your flight. You can find this information on your airline’s mobile app or website. If your flight is cancelled, wait for instructions from the airline.
Most Hiking Trails Closed for Safety Reasons
Following heavy rains combined with strong winds, there is an increased risk of landslides and rockfalls. The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has therefore closed most of the recommended walking routes (PR).
Who is affected?
All hiking enthusiasts who were planning a trip along the levadas or into the mountains.
What This Means in Practice
Even the most popular trails are inaccessible. The entry ban applies to, among others:
- Pico do Arieiro – Pico Ruivo (PR1): The trail is closed beyond the Ninho da Manta viewpoint. The access road from Eira do Serrado to Pico do Arieiro is also closed.
- Rabaçal Area: The Levada das 25 Fontes (PR6) and Levada do Risco (PR6.1) trails are completely closed.
- Levada do Caldeirão Verde (PR9): One of the most visited levadas in the north is also out of service.
- Other closed trails: Vereda da Ilha (PR1.1), Vereda do Larano (PR8), Levada do Moinho (PR7), Levada do Rei (PR18), and others.
What You Should Do
Today is not a suitable day for hiking in the mountains or forests. Please respect all warnings and physical barriers at the trailheads. Bypassing these barriers is extremely dangerous under the current conditions. We recommend choosing an alternative activity in the city instead.
High Seas Warning
The Port Authority has extended the warning for strong winds and high waves, which will remain in effect until at least Friday morning. The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued yellow and orange weather warnings.
Who is affected?
Anyone planning to be near the coast.
What This Means in Practice
Boat trips for dolphin and whale watching have been cancelled. It is dangerous to be on piers, cliffs, and unprotected coastal areas.
What You Should Do
Avoid cliff edges and do not go onto piers being washed over by waves. Swimming in the ocean is not recommended today.