Over the next three days, the Maltese Islands are expected to be battered by strong gale force winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rain.

In a Facebook post, Maltaweather.com warned about the expected thunderstorms saying “the main threats remain SEVERE WIND GUSTS along with HEAVY rain showers and LARGE HAIL up to 3.5 cm in diameter, particularly overnight Thursday to Friday! This is large enough to cause damage to cars!”

The strong winds will reach Force 6 later today, increase to Force 7 by early Thursday, with possible damaging storm gusts at Force 9-10 from tomorrow afternoon to Friday morning. Delays in travelling are likely to occur, so planning ahead is suggested!

The sea is also likely to be very rough - boat owners have been advised to remove their vessels as soon as possible, and drives urged not to park near the coast and weak structures, as they run the risk of toppling over.

As always, remember to stay safe when travelling in a rough weather, and seek shelter when the elements get too tricky.