Today’s Black Friday event has been graced with blue skies and low winds, creating opportune conditions to enjoy deals and discounts on offer by local retailers.
For many prospective shoppers, taking advantage of the deals on the Friday is not really an option due to work constraints. For those who plan to make a specific purchase during this weekend, making arrangements to visit the shops on Friday (today) may be a better option, with heavy rain and wind forecast for Saturday and Sunday.
Saturday is forecast to be particularly rough, with a heavy rain warning issued by Malta Islands Weather. The warning is in effect from 6am until 6pm, with the service advising Malta’s residents that a low pressure system over Italy will lead to a number of widespread thunderstorms to develop around the Maltese Islands.
“We expect thundery rain that will be heavy at times. Given that the storm systems will move across our region very slowly, substantial amounts of rain could accumulate. The rain may be accompanied by hail and strong wind gusts at times.
“We advise you to avoid areas known for floodings and to refrain from leaving vehicle parked in these areas,” Malta Islands Weather said, which undoubtedly will come as bad news to the many retailers in Birkirkara – an area prone to flooding and popular for shopping.
Sliema, another popular shopping district is exposed due to its proximity to the coast, however the area is not prone to flooding.
Maltese Islands Weather went on to say that “total rainfall values may be significant”. This is backed by a report by WindFinder which claims that Malta can expect around 10mm of rain to fall on Saturday at 10am.
Indoor shopping complexes, such as Tigne Point, the Plaza or Bay Street may perform better on Saturday, providing consumers with much needed shelter. Whether the bad weather stops shoppers from leaving the house all together on Saturday, is another matter.
Retailers with a strong online offering may also perform better during this year’s Black Friday event.
The bad weather is expected to spread into Sunday, albeit not as severe.
Good luck to all the shoppers who attempt to brave the bad weather this weekend!
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