All Good Friday processions in Gozo and others in Malta were cancelled on Friday due to severe winds and forecast isolated showers, disrupting one of the islands' most cherished Easter traditions.

Parishes in Nadur, Żebbuġ, Rabat and Xagħra (all in Gozo) called off their processions just hours before they were due to begin, following a yellow weather warning for strong winds and unstable conditions.

The adverse weather also led to the cancellation of several processions in Malta. Other processions started later than scheduled and took a shorter route.

The Good Friday procession in Rabat was called off, while Ħaż-Żebbuġ's procession - widely regarded as one of the longest on the islands - was also cancelled on Friday afternoon.

In Paola, organisers opted to move the procession indoors at the parish church instead of holding the usual outdoor event. The processions at Naxxar and Zejtun were also cancelled. The organisers of the Naxxar Good Friday procession said it would be "irresponsible" to hold the event given the weather conditions. 

The Żejtun procession organisers said their event was cancelled after they took into consideration "the health of those who were to going to take part as well as the damage that could be caused by the situation".  

The Ta' Ġiezu Church in Valletta also took the "difficult decision" to cancel the procession, "not only because of the possibility of rain, but also because the rain that has already fallen made the descent and the steps unsafe."  

Good Friday processions are among Malta and Gozo's oldest and most deeply rooted religious traditions, drawing large crowds every year. The custom dates back centuries and remains a central feature of Holy Week commemorations across the islands.

However, Friday's strong winds and unsettled weather forced organisers to put safety first, amid concerns that gusts and rain could damage the statues or pose a risk to participants and spectators.

The cancellations come as a disappointment to many faithful and visitors who look forward to the annual events, particularly in Gozo where the processions form an important part of the island's religious and cultural calendar.