667 Lightning Strikes Recorded During Storm Harry In Malta

During Storm Harry on 20th January, researchers from the Oceanography Malta Research Group (OMRG) at the University of Malta rapidly tracked changing marine and atmospheric conditions in real time, demonstrating…

During Storm Harry on 20th January, researchers from the Oceanography Malta Research Group (OMRG) at the University of Malta rapidly tracked changing marine and atmospheric conditions in real time, demonstrating the value of continuous environmental monitoring.

Led by Professor Alan Deidun, the team noted that Maltese waters have shown a long‑term trend of greater summer warming and reduced winter cooling, a pattern that can increase the energy available to storm systems and underscores the importance of sustained observation efforts.

Despite strong winds across the islands, OMRG’s observing systems continued to record the storm’s passage. The HF radar network around Malta, linked with radar coverage in Sicily through international collaboration, measured surface currents, providing insight into how the sea responded.

The multiparametric buoy BLUE, deployed offshore at the Grand Harbour entrance and managed by Prof. Adam Gauci, recorded exceptional conditions. At 09.59am, the buoy registered its highest individual wave since deployment in April 2025, reaching 13.14 metres- roughly twice the height of the Triton Fountain when operating.

Shortly after, at 10.19am, the storm produced its roughest overall sea state with a significant wave height of 8.61 metres. Near‑surface currents also intensified, reaching about 2.5 knots (4.6 km/h), with the strongest flow directed southwards.

Meteorological stations installed around Malta to support safe navigation captured continuous data throughout the event, including a maximum wind gust of 26.30 m/s (around 95 km/h).

OMRG also monitored thunderstorm activity as the system passed over Malta. The LINET sensor detected a total of 667 lightning events between 10am and 10pm, with the busiest period between 6pm and 7pm. Of these, 63 strikes occurred within 20 kilometres of Malta and eight were recorded over land, with the strongest land event measured at +42.6 kA in the Marsaxlokk area at 6.40pm.

The ocean observing infrastructure coordinated by Prof. Gauci, with Audrey Zammit and David Montano leading data processing and visualisation, is costly to procure, operate, and maintain. OMRG relies largely on EU funding to sustain these systems, and major storms can cause damage to equipment, particularly at exposed sites.

Sharing observations with the public remains a core part of OMRG’s mission. Events like Storm Harry highlight the importance of continuous, real‑time monitoring in a changing climate, aiding understanding, preparedness, and public safety.

Cover Image Credit: Malta MET Office

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