A Caribbean island known for its winter sun has been transformed into a deserted place, as both locals and tourists seek shelter indoors.
Storm Harry unleashed its fury on Malta, pounding the island with 120km/h winds and massive waves that breached sea defenses, causing flooding in coastal towns like Marsaskala. The aftermath left debris strewn across the streets, overwhelming resorts in the area.
The ferries connecting Malta and Gozo ceased operations, prompting hotels on the main island to offer discounted accommodation to stranded individuals. MaltaPost halted deliveries, and waste collection was suspended to prevent rubbish bags from being scattered on the roads. The city streets remained empty as residents followed safety advisories to stay indoors.
Rachael Penn from The Mirror shared her experience of being caught in the chaos of Storm Harry while on a winter sun holiday in Valletta. Typically, January in Malta offers pleasant weather with cool temperatures and abundant sunshine, but this time, the storm brought heavy rain and strong winds, necessitating precautions to stay indoors.
Valletta, usually bustling with tourists during this season, resembled a ghost town with closed businesses and deserted streets. Despite the eerie atmosphere, Rachael took the opportunity to explore the city when it was unusually quiet, noting the absence of outdoor seating that had been a point of contention among locals.
As Rachael ventured to Upper Barrakka Gardens for a scenic view, the strong winds forced her to retreat, eventually seeking refuge in one of the few open pubs. She then dined at Cafe Jubilee, one of her favorite restaurants that remained operational amid the storm.
After witnessing a spectacular lightning storm from her hotel, Rachael reflected on the resilience and beauty of Malta despite the storm’s impact. The worst of the weather subsided overnight, with flight schedules returning to normalcy the next day.
Rachael concluded that while the storm left its mark on the coast, causing property damage and flooding, Malta’s charm remained intact. The unusual experience of witnessing such a powerful storm in a typically vibrant setting served as a reminder of nature’s force even in the most idyllic locations.
