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Severe Weather Alert Issued for Madeira Archipelago

Madeira GuideMadeira Guide
April 7, 2026
3 min read

The Madeira Port Captaincy has issued a severe weather warning, advising maritime precautions due to strong winds and high waves expected.

The Captaincy of the Port of Funchal has announced the issuance of a severe weather alert, marked as signal 6, for the Madeira archipelago. This warning, provided by the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), highlights the potential for strong winds and high waves affecting the region.

The warning specifies winds reaching force 7, which corresponds to speeds between 51 to 62 km/h from any direction. Residents and visitors are advised to remain cautious, especially those involved in maritime activities.

The alert remains in effect until 18:00 local time on April 8. During this period, winds are expected to blow from the North-Northwest, increasing throughout the day to reach very fresh to strong levels by the afternoon.

Wave conditions are anticipated to be severe, with the northern coast experiencing waves from the Northwest ranging from 3.5 to 5 meters, increasing to between 4.5 and 6 meters by mid-morning. The southern coast will see waves from the West-Southwest measuring 1 to 2 meters, rising to 3 to 4 meters in the western areas.

  • Strengthen the mooring and maintain vigilant surveillance of docked and anchored vessels.
  • Avoid walking near the sea or on areas exposed to marine agitation, such as breakwaters, cliffs, or beaches.
  • Refrain from engaging in leisure fishing, particularly near cliffs and coastal areas frequently struck by waves.

These precautions are particularly crucial for ensuring the safety of both residents and tourists who might be unfamiliar with the local maritime conditions. Madeira's unique geography often results in rapidly changing weather patterns, making vigilance essential.

Sources

Madeira Guide

Madeira Guide

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