Batten Down the Hatches: Stormy Weather to Hang On Until Good Friday

As I write this, the Mediterranean outside my window is churning like a pot of rabbit stew on my grandmother’s stove. The wind howls through the casement, rattling the shutters and sending the bougainvillea into a frenzy. Welcome to Malta in the grip of another stormy spell, with unsettled weather set to persist until Good Friday.

What’s Brewing?

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning, advising of strong winds and heavy rain across the islands. The storm, dubbed ‘Medusa’ by meteorologists, is bringing gusts of up to 90km/h and rain that’s threatening to turn our streets into temporary waterways. The worst of it is expected to hit late tonight and into Thursday, with a lull on Friday before another bout on Saturday.

Local Impact: From Street Markets to Sea Crossings

With the storm set to disrupt life until Good Friday, here’s what locals and visitors can expect:

• Street Markets: The popular street markets in towns like Mdina, Rabat, and Marsaxlokk are likely to be affected. Expect cancellations or early closures. Keep an eye on the local councils’ social media pages for updates.
• Public Transport: Bus services may be disrupted due to strong winds. Delays and cancellations are possible, so plan your journeys accordingly. Check Public Transport Malta‘s website for real-time updates.
• Sea Crossings: The storm is expected to cause rough seas, leading to delays or cancellations of ferry services between Malta and Gozo. If you’re planning a trip, monitor the Gozo Channel website for updates.

Safety First: Preparing for the Storm

With the weather set to be stormy until Good Friday, it’s crucial to take necessary precautions:

• Secure outdoor furniture and loose items that could be blown away.
• Trim trees and branches that could fall during high winds.
• Check your emergency supplies, including a torch, batteries, and a first aid kit.
• If you’re driving, be extra cautious. Strong winds can blow debris onto roads and reduce visibility.

Remember, it’s better to be overprepared than caught off guard. Let’s hope Medusa isn’t as nasty as she looks!