New Fires

The fire in Sao Roque is now under control, but new fires have broken out nearby, and at least 10 people have had to leave their homes.

Today's temperature in Funchal hit 37 degrees, and everywhere is so dry.

A new fire has started in the valley of Santo Antonio, and a tyre factory in this area is on fire.

This news is just coming in now.

 I will try to give some more updates as the evening goes on. 

Update 20.45

£ houses have been damaged in the Lonbo dos Aguiares area of Sao Roque.
The residents of two houses will need re-housing, and the 3rd home seems to belong to immigrants who are away from the island.

Another fire has broken out behind the cemetery of Santo Antonio. It looks like it could be a long night for many in Madeira tonight including all the emergency services.
Hope you all can stay safe.

Windy at airport.

Strong winds are causing problems at the airport. In The last hour 3 planes have failed to land, 1 easyjet and 2 TAP, they diverted to Porto Santo.

Update 10.30..... a total of 6 planes have now been diverted to Porto Santo. Hope the wind drops so they can get to Madeira this afternoon.

Flower Festival 2016

Well the first 3 months of the year have flown by, and now we are in April, which means the island is getting ready for Flower Festival.

One of the busiest tourist attractions of the year, the festival will start 7th April with the opening of the Flower carpet and displays. Sunday 10th will see the Main Parade, and the following Sunday 17th  the festival comes to a close with a classic car parade. 

Full Program Below. 

New Restaurant area in Madeira's Airport.

The new restaurant area opened in Madeira's Airport today on the 3rd floor. Much needed and about time we have a little more choice of food, and the refit looks nice and modern.

Chrissie The cat

Chris and Domi are a couple from Prague who would really like to see Chrissie in a warm friendly home.

At the moment Chrissie is in the care of SPAD, Madeira's animal shelter. 

They hope a home can be found for Chrissie really soon, or they are willing to have Chrissie taken to Prague so they can adopt her themselves, but would need someone to take the cat with them to try to save them another trip to Madeira.

They have made a video, so you can all see how cute this cat is.