VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Storm Harry continued to batter Malta on Monday night and into Tuesday, bringing gale-force winds, heavy rain and widespread disruption, including fallen trees, damaged property and the diversion of an inbound flight.
The Malta Meteorological Office reported winds reaching 56 knots, or around 103km/h, in Valletta by 7am on Tuesday. A red weather warning for severe gale-force winds remains in effect until noon, with coastal areas facing strong waves and sea spray. Conditions are expected to gradually ease later in the day, with winds dropping from Force 8 to Force 6.
By Tuesday morning, reports of damage had begun to emerge from several localities. Trees were reported down, while residents shared images and videos on social media showing water tank lids blown into streets and doors and windows shaking overnight. No injuries were reported.
An inbound Ryanair flight from Bucharest, scheduled to arrive shortly before 1am, was diverted to Bari after two failed landing attempts and is expected to arrive later on Tuesday morning.
Civil Protection Malta said it responded to at least 42 reports of trees obstructing roads and public spaces over the past 24 hours, along with 23 debris clearance operations. Crews also dealt with dislodged billboards, an electrical hazard, hazardous material spillages, fires and a lift rescue, as emergency services were placed on heightened alert.
Transport services were heavily affected. Virtu Ferries cancelled all trips between Malta and Sicily on Monday and Tuesday, while Gozo Channel suspended its operations. Ferry services between Valletta, Sliema and the Three Cities were also affected, and the Barrakka Lift will remain closed on Tuesday.
The storm prompted widespread precautionary measures. Government workers were urged to work remotely, post-secondary lectures were moved online, and refuse collection was suspended for the day. Schools remain open, but parents have been told they may keep children at home without penalty. The Malta Union of Teachers expressed concern over the decision to keep schools open amid the severe weather.
Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri urged the public to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary, avoid coastal areas and refrain from parking vehicles near trees, construction sites or the sea. He said the worst of the storm was expected to pass by Tuesday afternoon, while emergency services remain on standby as strong winds continue to impact the islands
– photo Malta Protection Civil –
(ITALPRESS).
