Madeira is a famous and popular travel and tourism island in the Atlantic Ocean west of North Africa and belonging to Portugal.

More than 400 people have been evacuated in Madeira close to the capital city of Funchal, after wildfires destroyed buildings.

At least 27 homes have been destroyed on the popular holiday island.

Smoke fanned by strong winds has also disrupted flights at the airport.

Mr. Albuquerque told reporters that fires encroaching on Funchal were now under control and cooler temperatures forecast for Wednesday should ease the situation.

A shopping centre and a hospital were among the buildings evacuated, reports said.

WHAT TO TAKE AWAY FROM THIS ARTICLE:

Madeira is a famous and popular travel and tourism island in the Atlantic Ocean west of North Africa and belonging to Portugal.
A shopping centre and a hospital were among the buildings evacuated, reports said.
At least 27 homes have been destroyed on the popular holiday island.