If you’ve stepped outside at any point over the last few days, you’ll know that Malta’s weather has gone full apocalypse mode. From hail blanketing Rabat over the weekend to a powerful storm system now bearing down on the islands, conditions are expected to worsen, with gale-force winds reaching Force 9, and potentially gusting up to Force 10.

With the risk of significant damage, particularly along coastal areas, Malta’s Civil Protection Department (CPD) has issued an urgent warning, cautioning that wave heights could reach up to 7.5 metres during peak gusts.

The CPD is urging residents and visitors to take the following precautions:

• Avoid working at heights, including rooftops, balconies, scaffolding and other exposed structures
• Stay away from shorelines, breakwaters and coastal paths, as strong waves and sea spray are expected. This warning applies particularly, though not exclusively, to Malta’s eastern and south-eastern coast, where waves may reach land
• Secure loose outdoor items, including furniture and decorations
• Drive with extreme caution, especially in open or exposed areas

Ferry services affected by rough seas

Unsurprisingly, ferry services across Malta and Gozo are being heavily impacted.

Gozo Channel

Gozo Channel has warned that some trips may be cancelled or suspended at short notice. All current crossings are being routed via Ċirkewwa South Quay, the longer route, meaning delays are expected.

Fast Ferry (Valletta–Gozo)

The Fast Ferry service between Valletta and Gozo has been suspended for both Monday 19th (today) and Tuesday 20th January, until further notice.

Valletta Ferries

Valletta Ferries, which operates services between Valletta, Sliema and the Three Cities, has confirmed cancellations for today. While tomorrow’s status has not yet been officially updated, an extension of the suspension is highly likely.

Virtu Ferries (Malta–Sicily)

Virtu Ferries has announced that all trips on Monday 19 and Tuesday 20 January are cancelled.
Weather permitting, services on Wednesday 21 January are currently scheduled as follows:

• Dep. Malta 18:00 – Arr. Pozzallo 19:45 (scheduled)
• Dep. Malta 20:00 – Arr. Pozzallo 21:45 (amended)
• Dep. Pozzallo 21:30 – Arr. Malta 23:15 (scheduled)
• Dep. Pozzallo 23:30 – Arr. Malta 01:15 (amended)

Passengers are advised to keep monitoring official channels for updates.

Closures across the island

Several locations around Malta are also shutting their doors due to safety concerns.

Nature reserves closed

Both Għadira Nature Reserve and Simar Nature Reserve will be closed to the public, as strong winds may render trails and open areas hazardous.

Seaside restaurants impacted

Seafront establishments, particularly along the eastern coast, are also being affected by the extreme weather. Anyone planning to dine out is strongly advised to contact restaurants in advance.

As an example, Porticello Restaurant in Valletta announced that, due to the expected very rough conditions, it will remain closed throughout Monday and Tuesday daytime, reopening on Tuesday evening, weather permitting.

How are you adapting your travel plans because of the storm?