Civil Protection Malta together with the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) and the Malta Police Force have warned of severe weather that is expected across the Maltese Islands over the next 24 hours and are “strongly” advising the public to “remain indoors unless absolutely necessary.”
Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri, in a press conference advised that tomorrow, Tuesday 20th January:
•The LNG floating storage unit has been moved to a safer mooring position, in line with standard procedures.
•The Gozo Channel service will be suspended as scheduled due to the bad weather.
He said that fhese measures, including those below and those advised previously, are based on forecasts from the Meteorological Office at Malta International Airport, which is in direct contact with the authorities. The forecast indicates that from the coming hours until tomorrow afternoon, strong winds, potentially reaching Force 9, are expected.
The situation is forecast to worsen from tonight and continue until 16:00hrs tomorrow, Tuesday 20 January. Isolated thundery showers and hail are also expected. The warning advises that anyone who does not need to go outside should remain indoors.
He concluded by stressing the importance of responsibility, urging the public to follow these precautions and avoid unnecessary risks to prevent incidents. He also encouraged contact with vulnerable or elderly individuals to ensure they receive this message and take appropriate precautions.
He further appealed “in the coming hours, please call anyone you know who may be vulnerable or elderly to ensure they are aware of this warning and take necessary precautions.”
The three services are urging the public to observe the following safety precautions:
The public is strongly advised to remain indoors unless absolutely necessary.
Do NOT call 112 unless it is a genuine emergency, so emergency lines remain available for those in immediate need.
Avoid working at heights, including rooftops, balconies, scaffolding, and exposed structures.
Stay away from the shoreline, breakwaters, and coastal paths due to strong waves and sea spray.
Secure loose outdoor items.
Drive with caution, especially in open or exposed areas.
File photo: Gozo News/Alain Salvary