With gale-force winds, heavy rain and consequent flooding about to take over the islands, these are the places to avoid if you don’t want to find yourself floating in your car seat, stalling your vehicle or driving with damp (and mighty stinky) upholstery for the coming weeks. But with the forecast severity of the incoming storm, you could very well end up doing all three this week!

In general, its advised to avoid any hilly areas, but with the island made of nothing but bumps (subtle roadwork pun intended), steering your way home this week might prove more difficult than usual. Here are the top places to AVOID:

1. Msida Valley

Flooding started earlier today with rising sea levels but with heavy bouts of rain and wind already battering the island, it is only a matter of time till the area is completely submerged. As is the case with the smallest rainfall, best to avoid the area entirely due to the high risk of flooding (and traffic).

2. Birkirkara/Sta Venera

Although not as low-lying as Msida, Birkirkara suffers through its fair share of flooding issues and its not looking like it will miss out on this one. If you have any post-work errands to run through Valley Road or Psaila Street, best to leave them for another day! By extension, parts of Santa Venera and the Costa Coffee roundabout at Balzan are also considered a no-go area for the next few evenings.

3. Coast Road

This unsheltered stretch of road may alleviate day-to-day traffic issues, but taking the longer way home has never been more advised. With virtually no protection against either the gale-force winds or fast-falling rain, not only is flooding an imminent consequence but driving through might prove to be too dangerous.

4. Mellieha

The locality may be famous for its beautiful seascapes and a trip to the North will definitely leave you with wet socks. Prone to flooding, it's best to find alternate routes home that avoid steep inclines, such as the hill shown in the video, captured in a similar storm two years ago.

5. Sliema

Sliema suffered astronomically earlier this year during a storm that absolutely ravaged the area. With similar winds blowing its away, the area may be in for bout two of the same. Same as with any seaside localities, best to steer clear if possible.

While these areas are the localities most at risk from flooding, many other places may be depending on the severity of the storm. Let us know by sending us pictures and videos of affected areas!

Safe transit home!