The situation regarding Madeira’s world-famous New Year’s Eve celebrations is evolving rapidly as Storm Francis approaches the archipelago. With an Orange Warning in effect and forecasts predicting the worst weather conditions—heavy rain, hail, and 80 km/h winds—precisely during the midnight hour, authorities are being forced to rethink the traditional schedule.
The Plan: Fireworks at 20:00? According to exclusive information obtained by This is Madeira Island, the safety and technical teams are strongly recommending that the main fireworks display be rescheduled to 20:00 (8:00 PM) tomorrow evening.
This shift would allow the pyrotechnic show to proceed during a safer “weather window” before the storm peaks between midnight and 06:00 AM on January 1st.
Crucial Update: Government Meeting at 19:00 We can now confirm that the Regional Government has summoned journalists for an urgent press conference/meeting today at 19:00.
It is highly probable that this meeting will serve as the official platform to announce the schedule change. Authorities are expected to brief the media on the final safety protocols and confirm if the 20:00 start time is locked in.
What to Expect
19:00: Official announcement from the Regional Government.
20:00 (Likely): The New Year’s Eve Fireworks display begins (if the plan is approved).
Midnight: Storm intensity peaks; citizens are advised to take shelter.
We are monitoring this 19:00 meeting closely. Please keep refreshing this page—we will post the final confirmation the second it is announced.
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