The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) forecasts strong to very strong north winds, temporarily stormy, with speeds between 75 and 87 kilometers per hour, especially in the eastern region until nightfall, according to the regional maritime authority.
Visibility is expected to be “moderate to poor, occasionally very poor,” with waves reaching around eight meters on the northern coast, decreasing to between five and seven meters, and up to 5.5 meters in the southern part.
The maritime community and the general public are advised to take precautions both in preparation for going out to sea and when at sea or in coastal areas, with specific recommendations to strengthen boat moorings, avoid walking near the sea or in areas exposed to rough seas, and refrain from recreational fishing.
The Madeira archipelago is currently affected by Depression Emília, which is bringing strong winds, snowfall, and rain, which can be heavy at times.
The IPMA has issued an orange warning, the second most severe, for the northern coast of the island, anticipating gusts up to 130 kilometers per hour.
This warning is in effect until at least 6 p.m., after which it will be downgraded to yellow.
For maritime conditions, the IPMA has issued the most severe red warning starting at 9 p.m. today until 6 p.m. Saturday.
Adverse weather conditions today disrupted landings and take-offs at Madeira International Airport, leading to the cancellation of dozens of flights, impacting thousands of passengers. Only one aircraft from Binter, arriving from Gran Canaria, managed to land at 7:23 p.m.
Porto Santo Line, the operator of the regular maritime line between Madeira, also announced the cancellation of today’s and Saturday’s scheduled trips “due to the forecasted adverse weather conditions, which could threaten the safety of passengers and the vessel Lobo Marinho.”
