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Multiple Incidents Strike Madeira: Landslides, Wall Collapse, and a Fatal Incident

Madeira GuideMadeira Guide
January 3, 2026
3 min read

Madeira experiences multiple emergency situations, including landslides, a wall collapse in Funchal, and a fatal cardiac arrest incident. Local authorities are actively managing the situations to ensure public safety.

On January 2, 2026, Madeira witnessed several emergency incidents that prompted rapid response from local authorities. The day began with a series of landslides along the Estrada do Curral dos Romeiros in Funchal. These landslides, accompanied by three fallen trees, required the immediate attention of the Bombeiros Voluntários Madeirenses.

In addition to the landslides, a wall collapsed onto a footpath in São Gonçalo, specifically at the Escadinhas do Serrado. Emergency services quickly cleared a path for residents to ensure their safety and maintain access.

Tragic Incident in São João

Later in the day, a tragic event unfolded in São João, Funchal, where a woman in her 50s suffered a cardiac arrest. Despite the efforts of the Bombeiros Voluntários Madeirenses and the medical emergency response team (EMIR), she unfortunately passed away. The Public Security Police (PSP) were also present at the scene.

Vehicle Accident on the Via Rápida

The previous night, emergency services were also called to a car rollover on the via rápida near Ponte dos Frades, in the direction of Funchal-Câmara de Lobos. Fortunately, the driver escaped uninjured, although the incident required the deployment of 13 personnel with five vehicles from the Bombeiros Voluntários de Câmara de Lobos.

These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges faced by Madeira's emergency services, as they work tirelessly to ensure the safety of residents and tourists alike. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety advisories.

Sources

Madeira Guide

Madeira Guide

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