Bad Weather Alert: Hiking Trails Closed, Orange Warning Issued

Bad Weather Alert: Hiking Trails Closed, Orange Warning Issued

Weather conditions are expected to worsen, with an orange weather warning issued for Madeira’s south coast. All classified hiking trails are set to close tomorrow for safety reasons.

IPMA Raises Orange Rain Warning For Madeira South Coast From 06:00 To 12:00 Tomorrow

Portugal’s sea and weather authority, the Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera (IPMA), placed the South Coast of Madeira and the island’s mountain areas under an orange warning for heavy rain tomorrow, from 06:00 to 12:00. The agency expects persistent rainfall, sometimes intense, and the chance of thunderstorms. From 12:00 to 15:00, the alert level will drop back to yellow. Across the North Coast, a yellow rain warning will remain in effect from 06:00h to 15:00h the same day.

Classified hiking trails will close tomorrow

Northwest Swells of 4–4.5 Meters Prompt Sea Warnings Through 24:00, Dec. 10

Yellow sea warnings are in force for Madeira and Porto Santo due to rough conditions. Separate rain warnings also cover Porto Santo from 06:00 to 15:00 tomorrow, when downpours and thunderstorms may affect the island. Officials advise caution for coastal activities and navigation during this period.

Winds Up to 80 km/h In High Areas As Islands Brace Overnight Into Tuesday

The Regional Civil Protection Service warned that winds will strengthen into Tuesday, with southwest gusts reaching up to 65 km/h and up to 80 km/h in high ground, especially in the east and west of Madeira. Heavy rain could make roads slippery and overwhelm drainage systems in urban areas.

Authorities also warned of falling branches and trees, damage to power and communications networks, loose objects on roads, and the risk of floods in places known to be vulnerable. They urged residents to clear drains, secure scaffolding and signs, avoid wooded zones and rough coastline, limit unnecessary travel, and stay alert to official updates.

All Classified Walking Trails Closed On Dec. 9, Eira do Serrado–Pico Do Areeiro Road Shuttered

For safety reasons, the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) said all classified walking routes in Madeira will close from tomorrow. The forest road connecting Eira do Serrado and Pico do Arieiro will also remain shut for the day.

In a statement, the agency urged people to heed official guidance: “The IFCN appeals to all residents and visitors to strictly follow Civil Protection instructions and avoid any risk behavior.” The institute also asked the public to report problems found on paths, such as fallen rocks, branches, or trees, and said it will issue updates as conditions change.

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