A heavy hailstorm hit Malta overnight, dumping centimetres of hail in various parts, most notably in the Rabat area.

The locality ended up being a playground of ice, as several roads were covered in white, prompting children to use the day - no schools open - to build snowmen, a rarity for the Maltese islands.

The sheets of ice hoever caused mobility difficulties for cars. Malta is unequipped for such weather conditions, and driving on icy roads could prove very tricky.

The most affected areas include Rabat and Baħrija, where sudden hailstorms have created hazardous driving conditions.

The Civil Protection Department advised the general public to exercise extra caution on the roads following reports of heavy hail across the island. Motorists were advised to slow down, avoid unnecessary travel where possible, and remain alert to changing weather conditions.

During the day, CPD officers were involved in clearing up the ice to make the roads manageable again.

The Met Office is forecasting a cloudy day on Saturday and Sunday, with strings winds and more rain expected as from Monday.

Photos: Civil Protection Department