Madeira Weather

Madeira is rarely too hot. Temperatures can reach around 33C when the Leste an eastern wind blowing from the Sahara desert, blows for a few days every year; however, temperatures average at a maximum of 24C during the summer months (July through October) and a minimum of 17C. During the winter, average temperatures drop by about 4C.

Microclimates

Several different microclimates can be experienced around the island. The Bay of Funchal, sheltered by the tallest peaks, enjoys the best sunshine. Further along the west coast at Ponta do Sol and Calheta, flanked by the lower hills of the Pal da Serra, the sun shines brighter, but this area is less protected from the sea winds.

Winds

The prevailing wind is the North Easterly Trade that gathers off the Portuguese coast and blows towards the Cape Verde Islands. It brings humidity and large sea swells to the north coast, and often, particularly in the morning, adversely affects the weather on the eastern end of the island between Canio and Canial. However, with a westerly wind, these areas can be unexpectedly dry and sunny, while the south and west coasts get properly soaked.

Average Temperature (°C)

30 22 15 8 0

Jan 14.0

Feb 14.0

Mar 14.0

Apr 15.0

May 16.0

Jun 18.0

Jul 20.0

Aug 21.0

Sep 20.0

Oct 19.0

Nov 17.0

Dec 15.0