Both the National Maritime Authority and the Portuguese Navy have issued alerts for the worsening sea conditions between midday tomorrow and midday on Sunday.
“The sea agitation will be characterised by a swell coming from the north-northwest quadrant, with waves reaching heights between 7 and 12 metres, with an average period varying between 17 and 18 seconds. Winds are expected from the northern quadrant, with an average intensity of 65 km/h and gusts of up to 117 km/h.”
Thus, the National Maritime Authority and the Navy recommend that all fishing boats return to the nearest port of refuge and adopt precautionary measures.”
They further recommend the “reinforcement of the mooring and surveillance of moored and anchored vessels.” Furthermore, they advise that “seafarers maintain a permanent state of vigilance and monitor the evolution of the meteorological situation, through navigation warnings and the weather forecast of the Portuguese Institute of Atmosphere and Sea (IPMA), as well as other information made available by the Port Captaincies on the conditions of access to ports, avoiding going out to sea until conditions improve.”
The general population is advised to avoid walking along the coastline, cliffs or on beaches. They further warn that people should refrain from entering the water. Â
“If there is an absolute need to travel to the coastline, you should maintain a vigilant attitude, always bearing in mind that in these conditions the sea can easily reach apparently safe areas,” state the authorities.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
