A rescue operation is underway as a chemical tanker is out of control off Bahar ic-Caghaq, Transport Minister Ian Borg said.
The tanker, the 202-metre long Chem P, is facing rough seas and strong winds which are hitting the islands.
It is understood that the crew has been unable to get the ship’s anchor to hold.
Tug Malta is involved in the operation to evacuate the crew members.
Two tug boats were deployed to the area in a bid to pull the tanker offshore as much as possible, and keep it away from the rocks.
Borg said in a Facebook post that Transport Malta is coordinating the rescue operation. He added that the vessel is considered to be a low pollution risk.