Madeira Under Red Alert as Waves Near 14 Meters

Madeira Under Red Alert as Waves Near 14 Meters

Authorities placed the north coast of Madeira and Porto Santo under red sea alert, as waves reaching up to 14 meters are expected, starting midnight on Saturday.

Red Warning From 00:00 to 06:00 With Waves Near 14 Meters

The IPMA issued its highest maritime alert for the north coast of Madeira and the island of Porto Santo. The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) said a red warning - the most serious on a four-level scale - would be in effect from Friday midnight to Saturday morning at 06:00.

The IPMA warned of waves that can reach up to 14 meters.

The warning for rough seas off the north coast of Madeira and Porto Santo Island is the most severe on a scale of four. Waves of around 14 meters are expected.

Orange Alert For Friday And Saturday Morning Across The Archipelago

Beyond the six-hour red warning, IPMA also issued an orange alert covering the rest of Friday and Saturday morning, meaning severe sea conditions will continue even after the highest-risk period ends. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid coastal viewpoints and unstable cliffs, and to keep a wide distance from the shore while seas remain violent.

Porto Santo Line Cancels Friday Ferries; Gusts Of 130 km/h in Mountains

Transport disruptions began hours after the alert. Porto Santo Line canceled all trips scheduled for Friday between Madeira and Porto Santo, citing safety concerns linked to the sea state. The IPMA also forecast strong winds in high ground, with gusts reaching up to 130 kilometers per hour in mountainous areas from midday Friday. Emergency services advised drivers to be careful on exposed roads and warned of falling objects and reduced visibility at altitude.

Source: RTP Madeira

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