Is it always raining in Madeira?

Quick answer

No, but it rains far more on the north coast (São Vicente, Seixal, Santana average 150+ rainy days a year) than the south (Funchal averages 88). Most days have rain somewhere on the island while elsewhere is sunny. Drive 20 minutes through the mountains and the weather usually changes completely.

Context

Madeira has a sharp microclimate split. The mountainous spine catches the north-east trade winds and pushes moisture up the northern slopes, where it falls as orographic rain. By the time the air descends to the south coast it's warm and dry, Funchal sees about 88 rainy days a year, less than London.

Practical rule for a holiday: if it's wet where you are, drive to the other coast. Cloud often sits on the high peaks (Pico do Arieiro, Encumeada) all day while Funchal stays bright. Conversely, when the south is cloudy, the north can be sunny.

The wettest months are October to February. The driest are July to September. Even in winter, two-thirds of days in Funchal record under 1 mm of rainfall.

More questions people ask

What is the driest month in Madeira?
July and August are the driest, with many weeks of almost no rain in Funchal.
Does rain close the levadas?
After heavy rain or a weather warning, the forestry service can close trails because of rockfall. Check our live levada conditions page before you set off.
How do I find where it is sunny right now?
Look at our live weather by parish and the island webcams. They show at a glance which coast is clear.

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