Gale leaves trail of damage
Marsalforn was probably the worst off, reigniting residents' plea for a breakwater to be built
The strong wind that struck the islands in the early hours yesterday left a trail of damage in its wake.
Trees were uprooted, paving tiles dislodged by the rough sea and debris washed ashore as the wind rose to force nine, a notch above gale force.
The Meteorological Office said the wind speed was an unusual occurrence as it rarely reached force nine. It started at 10 p.m. on Wednesday night, peaking early yesterday morning.
The Civil Protection Department was asked to remove trees damaged by the wind and ended up obstructing roads.
Boulders were strewn along the coast.
Marsalforn was probably the worst off, reigniting residents' plea for a breakwater to be built. Waves dislodged the promenade's red and white paving and dragged tiles into the street. Part of the metal railing collapsed into the sea. The road was inaccessible until it was cleared later in the morning.
Ċirkewwa also suffered structural damage as concrete slabs bordering the sea were broken apart and torn off their steel mesh.
The ferry service between the two islands came to a standstill. A spokesman for Gozo Channel said eight scheduled trips had been cancelled because of the rough sea. The service resumed according to schedule later in the morning.
At least two cars were scratched and dented by debris blown about by the wind, one in Għaxaq and the other in Ċirkewwa, according to a police spokesman.
Operations at the airport were not affected and a spokesman said no flights were delayed. In the morning, the wind speed dropped a notch or two and curious locals and tourists made their way to the seaside to enjoy the scene.
In Ġnejna, people strolled along the bay and were met by the sight of debris washed ashore.
Tourists took photographs as waves crashed onto the rocks, sending spray into the air. Others simply sat back reading in their cars, which they parked just opposite the bay.
In Ċirkewwa, a couple walked their dog along the quay as young tourists carefully made their way closer to the edge to better photograph the waves.
According to the Meteorological Office, the wind speed will drop to between force three and six in the coming days, which are expected to be characterised by cold temperatures and some showers.