The mega storm that hit Malta over the past hours left, as expected, damage in various parts of the island.

The strong winds and heavy rain, coupled with the rough seas, affected several parts of the island, as did the hail that fell as temperatures plummeted to unusual lows.

The storm led to the cancellation of the Malta marathon that was to be held today, as the situation is not expected to get better until at least Monday.

The situation on the roads is dangerous, with fallen trees and cut power lines all around the country. Billboards have toppled over and stone walls have been destroyed by the winds. 

It is a busy day for the Police Force and the Civil Protection Department, who have several units out on the streets to deal with the damage. 

The storm has caused considerable damage to carnival floats.

The weather has also affected political events, with the PN postponing the closing session of its General Council until Wednesday and the PL cancelling an activity in Pieta. Both political leaders will be interviewed on the radio.

Ghaqda Bdiewa Attivi also reported that the storm had caused considerable damage amounting to some €50,000 adding that it was heart-wrenching to wake up and find your enterprise in tatters.  

The video below, shot in St Julian's, shows the damage caused to a seafront restaurant. 

People are being urged to stay indoors. The Met Office is advising the public to take precautions and to keep up to date with the latest weather forecast. It said disruptions to daily routines was to be expected.

It also warned that waves can reach a height of five metres.

Malta Public Transport said that, following the damage caused by a storm, many roads are closed. This is affecting all bus routes, with buses being diverted by the authorities.

Delays are being experienced on all routes.

Transport and Infrastructure Minister Ian Borg visited some of the areas which were hit by the storm, saying that government workers were employed to remove any dangerous material that was hindering the passage of vehicles.

The Environmental Health Directorate within the Superintendence of Public Health in a statement said that due to the severe weather and as a precaution, all government cemeteries are being closed until tomorrow morning.

Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana thanked the government workers who worked to remove dangerous debris in Gozo.