High winds, heavy rain and mini tornadoes caused chaos across the country last night as police advised members of the public to stay indoors.

“We have received several reports of incidents caused by the bad weather such as falling trees and billboards,” a police statement said.

A billboard on a road between Mdina and Mosta collapsed and electricity poles were blown over. Road surfaces were also damaged, particularly around the national stadium in Ta’ Qali.

Trees were uprooted across the island, some hitting parked cars or blocking roads.

“Reports are coming in thick and fast,” a police spokeswoman said.

Motorists were urged to avoid main roads around Luqa, Mosta, Attard, Żebbuġ, Birżebbuġa, Msida and Birkirkara. Low-lying areas were flooded.

At Luqa, two light aircraft were turned upside down as a result of the strong winds.

Photos of the aircraft were published on the Sicilian website www.meteoweb.eu, which reported that Malta had been devastated by a cyclone, tornadoes and torrential rains.

Rain poured throughout the day, with several bouts of heavy showers. The Met Office forecasted showers would persist into today. Localised thunder was expected last night.

The rain is forecast to ease this afternoon, although the possibility of a few showers remains. Isolated showers are forecast for tomorrow, while Tuesday is expected to be dry and less windy but overcast.