update

[victor]

3 dead
1000 + residents/tourists with no accomodation

centre of funchal closed to all except emergency services

[meriad]

It's just awful Vic - and very little reporting of it being done here.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-37030217 is probably one of the few articles. So heartbreaking and I really really do hope that the situation somehow, by some miracle, is soon bought under control.

My heart goes out to all those affected and continuous well done to all the brave fire fighters out there - I don't want to be in their shoes right now

[victor]

no chance of rain til at least October

[AggersAgain]

It is so sad to hear of the terrible destruction caused by these fires, now far too common worldwide.

There can't be much doubt that they are the result of global warming plus lack of care by some people.

I wonder how long it will be before mankind realises that something has to be done to save the planet?

Hope you remain safe, Victor.

[Suff]

I saw that a fire spread into Funchal last night.

Hope you are well and not impacted.

[Kaz]

Terrible.................

[victor]

fire now is about 1k away from us but moving across the hills and not down towards us,can smell it though

have put couple pics on f/b cant remember how to do for VV

[meriad]

Jeez Vic, that'a a bit very close for comfort if you haven't yet, get prepared to evacuate; because if you do have to it'll be in a hurry

Stay safe x

[molly]

How frightening Victor…1 km…..scarey

[Rodo]

We know Funchal quite well having holidayed there several times and find all this totally devastating. Stay safe Vic, look after yourself and we hope and pray that things can be brought under control as soon as possible.