Shoppers around Malta have encountered empty or poorly stocked supermarket shelves following several days of severe weather that disrupted cargo deliveries to the island.
Photos shared online by Għaqda Bdiewa Attivi, the farmers’ association, showed noticeable gaps in shelves, particularly in areas normally filled with fresh fruit and vegetables. The group said the situation demonstrates how quickly food supply chains can be affected when transport links are interrupted.
Over the weekend and into Monday, customers reported shortages at LIDL and Eurospin, where much of the fresh produce and some meat products were unavailable. By Sunday morning, some outlets were said to have run out of most fruit and vegetables, as well as beef, pork and poultry.
Both retailers rely heavily on daily imports from Sicily. Although no official statement has been issued, the shortages are widely believed to be the result of delays or cancellations to ferry services between Malta and Sicily due to strong winds and rough seas.
Malta has experienced persistent rainfall and gusty conditions in recent days, weather that can force shipping operators to suspend or postpone crossings for safety reasons.