VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta is bracing for a day of disruption on Monday and into early Tuesday as gale-force winds are forecast to batter the islands, prompting transport cancellations and public safety warnings.
Ferry services across the Grand Harbour were suspended on Monday morning, with crossings between Valletta, Sliema and the Three Cities halted due to rough seas and strong winds. All Virtu Ferries trips to and from Sicily were cancelled, while the Gozo Channel warned of possible delays and cancellations.
The Met Office warned that east-southeast winds would strengthen throughout the day, increasing from Force 7 to Force 8 on Monday and peaking at Force 9 by Tuesday before easing later in the day. Winds of over 40 knots are possible, according to officials.
The Armed Forces’ Rescue Coordination Centre and the Civil Protection Department urged the public to avoid coastal areas, rooftops, balconies and other exposed locations. Authorities also advised securing loose items and exercising caution while driving.
The unsettled weather is being caused by a strengthening low-pressure system over Algeria, which is forecast to extend into the central Mediterranean and intensify as it crosses Tunisia. Meanwhile, a strong high-pressure system is expected to remain anchored over the Balkans.
-Photo IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).
