Tragic Day in Madeira: Accidents and Emergencies Strike

On January 19, 2026, Madeira experienced a series of unfortunate incidents that called for swift responses from local emergency services. These events unfolded across different parts of the island, affecting both residents and tourists.

In Câmara de Lobos, a driver lost control of his vehicle, resulting in a collision with a parked car on Estrada João Gonçalves Zarco. The vehicle subsequently overturned, but fortunately, the driver managed to exit the vehicle independently, sustaining only minor injuries. The local volunteer firefighters were quick to respond and transported the injured driver to Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça for further care.

A tragic incident occurred in Machico when a woman suffered a cardiac arrest on Rua Conselheiro José Ribeiro da Cunha. Despite the efforts of the municipal firefighters and the Emergency Medical Intervention Unit (EMIR), the woman could not be revived. This incident highlights the importance of emergency medical services and their rapid response across the island.

Another incident involved a 77-year-old English tourist who fell 10 meters while hiking along the Levada do Norte in the Estreito de Câmara de Lobos. Accompanied by her husband and a group of tourists, she was rescued by five local firefighters. She suffered a deep head wound and complained of pain in her leg and cervical area. She was also transported to Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça for treatment.

The Levadas, which are irrigation channels unique to Madeira, are popular hiking trails offering stunning views but can be hazardous, especially for those unfamiliar with the terrain. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and ensure they are adequately prepared when exploring these paths. The quick response by emergency services in these incidents underscores their critical role in maintaining safety for both locals and tourists.

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