Did Storm Harry uncover a new Maltese island? 

Nature-loving brothers Arnold and Jeffrey Sciberras, who are writing a book about the topography of the Maltese Islands, have shared photos of what appears to be an islet near Għar Lapsi.

They said they are examining historical maps and archival material to find out whether the rock used to be isolated prior to the 1940s, before extensive coastal modification and the widespread use of concrete, or whether it was always naturally connected to the surrounding rocky outcrops.

“The exceptional marine energy associated with this event appears to have removed accumulated sediment and altered coastal features sufficiently to reveal the rock, drawing attention to an area that had previously remained obscured or undocumented,” they said on their Islanders Facebook page.

With its rugged cliffs and crystalline waters, Għar Lapsi has long been a beloved swimming and snorkelling destination for locals and tourists alike.

And while focus now turns to its restoration,  the Sciberras brothers’ advice is for any future developments to respect the integrity of the natural rock, which they have provisionally named ‘Storm Harry Rock’.

“Allowing the rock to continue forming naturally, with minimal human intervention, would help preserve its scientific, ecological, and cultural value, ensuring that it remains as natural as possible within the dynamic coastal landscape,” they said.

“Perfect timing for our upcoming book.”

Cover photo: Islanders/ Facebook