A landslide on the island of Madeira, the largest in the Portuguese archipelago, has caused the death of a Spanish tourist approximately 20 years old and injured two other people, according to a spokesperson for the firefighters. The victims are reportedly members of the same family: father, mother, and daughter. The accident occurred when the group was finishing a hiking trail, reaching a waterfall in Levada da Água de Alto, in the parish of Faial, in the municipality of Santana, in the northern part of the island.
According to Civil Protection, there were two victims at the level of the Levada with minor bruises. Another victim, the young woman who was fatally injured, was apparently buried under a rock at the foot of the Levada. The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the Consulate General in Lisbon is aware of the incident and has offered assistance to the family of the deceased victim. The area of the accident is frequented by hiking enthusiasts and has become popular on social media, although it is not recommended by authorities as it is primarily used for irrigation water transport.
The spokesperson for the firefighters explained that the young woman likely died after being hit by rocks falling from the waterfall and that the other two injured individuals, presumably her parents, suffered only minor bruises. The surviving family members required medical and psychological attention for emotional support. The incident was reported at 13:05 local time and emergency services responded with 17 personnel and multiple vehicles. The landslide is unrelated to the wave of wildfires affecting the Portuguese archipelago, prompting Spain to send two amphibious aircraft as part of EU disaster relief efforts.
It is essential to stay informed about local events and emergencies to ensure safety and preparedness. The tragic accident on Madeira serves as a reminder of the risks associated with hiking in natural environments, particularly in areas prone to landslides. The response from emergency services and authorities highlights the importance of quick and effective action in the face of such incidents. The support offered by the Spanish Consulate General demonstrates the solidarity and cooperation among European nations during times of crisis.
The consequences of natural disasters can be devastating, particularly for those directly affected by such events. The emotional toll on the family of the deceased victim and the survivors underscores the need for compassion and support in times of tragedy. As tourists continue to visit popular hiking destinations like Madeira, it is crucial for authorities to provide clear guidelines and warnings to ensure visitor safety. The incident on Madeira should prompt a review of safety measures and regulations for tourist activities in natural areas to prevent future accidents and protect lives.
