Strong winds from Storm Harry have caused significant damage to greenhouses and polytunnels across several farming areas, leaving farmers facing thousands of euros in losses and raising concerns over a weaker strawberry season this year.
In Rabat, farmer Stephen Bartolo reported damage to three greenhouses used for vegetable production, with plastic coverings torn off and roofs punctured, exposing crops to disease. He estimated repair costs of up to €4,000, with total losses, including damaged crops, reaching around €5,000. Farmers in Rabat were already dealing with the aftermath of a heavy hailstorm earlier in the week.
A part-time farmer in Dingli said strong winds displaced polytunnels used for strawberry cultivation, damaging both strawberry plants and potato crops. He estimated losses of about €2,500 and warned that strawberry yields this season are likely to be significantly reduced.
Additional damage was reported by farmers in Manikata and Gudja.
The Agriculture Ministry said it is collecting damage reports from affected farmers and will submit the information to the European Commission to explore the possibility of an assistance scheme. Farmers have been asked to submit geotagged photos and details of affected crops through the Biedja Cam platform, with inspections to follow.
Source: timesofmalta.com
