Heat Record Reached at Pico do Areeiro and Pico Alto with 27.8 ºC in Madeira
On Sunday, June 29, 2025, the Autonomous Region of Madeira experienced an unusual day with record temperatures in its mountainous areas. Pico Alto and Pico do Areeiro, iconic high points of the island, registered 27.8 ºC, a rare phenomenon for this altitude during summer.
By solar noon, around 2 PM local time, Pico Alto reached an impressive mark of 28.8 ºC, surpassing the record set the previous day in Prazeres, which was 28.2 ºC. Meanwhile, Pico do Areeiro, one of Madeira’s most iconic mountains, was not far behind, recording 28.0 ºC. In Chão do Areeiro, the thermometer showed 27.2 ºC, highlighting a strong heatwave at the elevated spots of the island arc.
The Portuguese Institute of Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) issued a yellow warning for hot weather in the highlands, effective until 9 PM that Sunday. This type of alert is common on days of intense heat, reflecting the authorities’ concern for public well-being and safety in more vulnerable areas.
On the coastal areas, temperatures were less extreme but still notable. Ponta do Sol, on the south coast, recorded 26.7 ºC, standing out as the hottest spot along the coast, while São Vicente on the north coast registered 25.0 ºC. Despite the heat, Santo da Serra enjoyed milder temperatures of only 19.7 ºC.
The sky remained clear on the south coast and in the mountainous areas, creating an ideal environment, while the north coast faced periods of overcast skies, and Porto Santo experienced partly cloudy weather. The unprecedented heat contributed to an increase in the number of beachgoers, especially on the southern coast beaches that attracted visitors seeking a refresh in the warm ocean waters.
It is important to emphasize that while high temperatures are common during summer, records close to or exceeding 28 ºC in elevated areas are an exception in Madeira. This phenomenon highlights the potential impacts of climate change and the meteorological fluctuations that the archipelago has been experiencing.
This Sunday, Saint Peter’s Day, will be remembered by Madeirans as an unusual day, raising awareness about the need to remain alert regarding climate variations and their repercussions. The IPMA warning and the maximum values recorded at meteorological stations on Pico Alto and Areeiro strongly indicate the region’s climatic reality and the future that awaits us.
