Sea Warning: Orange Alert for the North Coast
Weather in Madeira today is influenced by the edge of low-pressure system “Joseph,” primarily bringing very rough seas. An orange warning for high waves is in effect for the north coast of the island and Porto Santo, with waves potentially reaching heights of up to 12 meters. The south coast is under a yellow warning.
- Who is affected? All tourists near the coastline, especially in areas like Porto Moniz, Seixal, or on the northern promenades.
- What does this mean in practice? Authorities have closed some access points to the sea and piers. Natural swimming pools may be out of service, and swimming is extremely dangerous.
- Our recommendation: Avoid the north coast today. Respect all barriers and do not underestimate the power of the waves for a photograph.
Trail Status: Pico do Areeiro Partially Closed, São Lourenço Repaired
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has updated the status of several key hiking trails. Please plan your trips considering the following restrictions.
⚠️ Restriction on PR1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico Ruivo)
The most popular mountain hike between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo is only partially open. For safety reasons, only the section from the radar at Pico do Areeiro to the Ninho da Manta viewpoint (approx. 1.2 km) is accessible. The path onward towards the tunnels and Pico Ruivo is closed.
- Who is affected? Hikers planning the complete trek to the island’s highest peak.
- What does this mean in practice? You can drive to Pico do Areeiro and walk to the first iconic viewpoint, but the full trek cannot be completed.
- Our recommendation: Enjoy the views from the accessible part of the trail, but do not bypass the barriers under any circumstances.
✅ Good News from PR8 Ponta de São Lourenço
The IFCN has completed repairs on the damaged wooden walkways on the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula trail. The route is now safer and in better condition.
- Who is affected? All lovers of coastal scenery.
- What does this mean in practice? One of the island’s most beautiful trails is fully operational.
- Our recommendation: Given the restrictions in the mountains, PR8 is an excellent alternative for today. However, be mindful of the strong winds, which are common on the exposed peninsula.
❌ Other Fully Closed Trails
- PR 1.3 Vereda da Encumeada
- PR 10 Levada do Furado (Ribeiro Frio) – closed due to a landslide
- PR 3 Levada do Pico do Castelo (on Porto Santo island)
Practical Tips for Today
Given the weather, today is an ideal opportunity to explore other sides of the island.
- Air Travel: If you are flying to or from mainland Portugal (Lisbon, Porto), where the situation is worse, monitor your flight status closely. Delays are possible.
- Plan B in Funchal: The windy weather is perfect for visiting museums (CR7, Monte Palace), the Mercado dos Lavradores market, or enjoying a Madeira wine tasting at Blandy’s Wine Lodge. The Forum Madeira shopping center is also a safe alternative.
- Support Locals: According to local media, the village of Camacha, a center for wickerwork, is losing its vitality. You can support the local economy by visiting and buying souvenirs directly from the artisans.
- Power Outages: Scheduled power outages for network maintenance are planned in some parts of Funchal. Make sure your phones are charged, just in case.