A recent storm named Harry brought chaos to the sunny island of Malta, turning it into an eerie, deserted place as strong winds and heavy rainfall hit the area. The storm, with winds reaching 120km per hour, caused severe damage, including flooding in coastal towns like Marsaskala. The surge of water overwhelmed resorts and left debris scattered on the streets.
Due to the storm, ferries between Malta and Gozo were suspended, forcing hotels to offer discounted stays to stranded travelers. MaltaPost halted deliveries, and waste collection was canceled to prevent trash from being blown around. Following safety warnings, locals stayed indoors, resulting in empty streets across the island.
Rachael Penn, a reporter from The Mirror, experienced the storm firsthand while on a winter break in Valletta, describing the usually vibrant city as a ghost town with closed businesses and deserted attractions. Despite the adverse weather conditions, she ventured out to explore the quiet streets, noting the absence of usual outdoor activities and the historical ambiance that emerged in the storm’s wake.
As the storm subsided, flights were expected to resume normal operations. Rachael reflected on the resilience of Malta, emphasizing the beauty of the island even in the aftermath of a powerful storm. The unusual sight of empty streets served as a stark reminder of nature’s force, showcasing the island’s ability to endure and recover from such events.
