Air Travel: Delays and Diversions at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport
Strong gusty winds in the airport area are disrupting travel plans for many tourists today. Several flights have already been diverted to neighboring islands, and significant delays have occurred throughout the day.
- Who is affected: Passengers arriving in or departing from Madeira today.
- What this means: Expect delays, and possibly the diversion or cancellation of your flight. Delays are likely to continue into the evening.
- What we recommend: Before heading to the airport, check the latest status of your flight with your airline or on the airport’s website (ANA Aeroportos). Stay in contact with your airline.
North Coast: Yellow Warning for High Waves
A warning for strong sea swells is in effect for the north coast of Madeira and the island of Porto Santo. Waves may reach heights of 4 to 5 meters, posing a significant risk.
- Who is affected: All visitors to the north coast, especially in the areas of Seixal, São Vicente, and Porto Moniz.
- What this means: Swimming on the north coast is dangerous today. Access to the natural pools in Porto Moniz may be restricted or completely closed.
- What we recommend: Avoid swimming and do not go onto piers, cliffs, or low-lying promenades. Enjoy the coastline from safe viewpoints. The south coast, including Funchal, remains calm and safe.
Trail and Levada Status: Mountains Battered by Wind
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has updated the status of hiking trails. Strong winds and the aftermath of recent rain have led to several restrictions.
- Fully Closed: The PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo trail (the ascent to the highest peak from the Achada do Teixeira car park) is closed due to the risk of minor landslides.
- Partially Open: The iconic summit trail, PR 1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo), is only passable via the western route through the tunnels. The eastern path via Pico das Torres remains impassable.
- Open and Recommended: Forest levadas in the north, which are more sheltered from the wind, are an excellent alternative. For example, the PR 9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde and the iconic PR 6 Levada das 25 Fontes are fully open.
- General Advice: If you venture into the mountains, pack a waterproof and windproof jacket and be extremely cautious on exposed sections.
Funchal in Bloom: A Great Plan B for Today
While nature shows its power, Funchal is transforming into a blooming gallery. The famous Flower Festival (Festa da Flor) begins today with the creation of traditional flower carpets along the main promenade, Avenida Arriaga.
- Who this is for: All visitors in and around Funchal. It’s an ideal activity for those whose original plans were thwarted by the weather.
- What this means: The city center is fragrant and full of color. You can watch the artists at work. Expect larger crowds and minor traffic restrictions in the center.
- What we recommend: Take a stroll along Avenida Arriaga. The best time to visit is late afternoon, when the first carpets will be finished, offering a breathtaking sight.
Where to next on our site?
- Guide: Flower Festival (Festa da Flor) – All You Need to Know
- Hiking: PR1 – The Traverse of Madeira’s Highest Peaks
- Trip Ideas: Porto Moniz and its Lava Pools
- Practical Info: Weather in Madeira Throughout the Year