IRG International Realty Group and Palheiro Estate join in extending their deepest sympathy to all families and friends involved in the Madeira tragedy

On Saturday 20 February 2010, the island of Madeira experienced adverse weather conditions. Heavy flooding and mudslides caused damage particularly to the capital of Funchal and the South of the island.

To date, 40 people have died and over 70 have been injured. 39 families in Madeira (of which 26 families are in Funchal) have lost their homes and have been provided with shelter.

The weather has now eased and as of Sunday, 21 February a major recovery operation started. The regional government of Madeira has deployed approximately 170 trucks and 150 machines to clear the most affected areas.

Essential services, including electricity and water are up and running. Mobile phone reception and internet connection has been restored on all parts of the island, apart from some areas in the North.

Both Funchal Airport and the Harbour have reopened. The ferry boat connections to Porto Santo are fully operational and running. The main roads can now be accessed from the East to the Ribeira Brava district. The road from Ribeira Brava to São Vicente in the North of the island remains closed.

The Palheiro Estate has been mildly affected by the weather conditions, with access temporarily restricted on secondary access roads and some minor instances of water infiltration. Other than slight damage to landscaping, Palheiro Village is unscathed. We are also pleased to report that all residents, members of staff and their families are safe and well.

They would like to take this opportunity to thank the many clients, professional associates, colleagues and friends who have been in contact to enquire about the situation and wish them well – They are entirely sure that with the spirit that exists in this island, beautiful Madeira will fully and quickly recover.

IRG International Realty Group together with the Directors, Management and Staff of the Palheiro Estate join in extending their deepest sympathy to all families and friends involved in this tragedy.

For further information, please contact Frederico Fernandes, property consultant at IRG International Realty Group in Madeira, at +351 911 070 444 or e-mail frederico@irgportugal.com

~ by irgportugal on February 25, 2010.