Updated | Traffic at a complete standstill, warning to avoid unnecessary road transport [WATCH]

The Civil Protection Department has warned the general public to avoid any unnecessary use of roads, as the sudden torrential downpour resumed at 4:15pm.

The meteorological situation deteriorated in the afternoon as rains resumed, resulting in most roads ending up flooded.

Malta is currently experiencing heavy rain with thunder, while temperatures are at 22.4% with 89% humidity. Met Office reports observed cumolonimbus clouds, and wind speeds of 8.7km per hour.

Showers and possible thunderstorms might be expected over the next 24 hours, with winds from the northwest gethering Force 4 and a 90% chance of rain.

Due to significant changes in the wind speed and direction, the Malta Airport MetOffice is advising the general public that the current weather conditions will persist with thunderstorms and heavy showers in particular areas, especially the centre and north of the Maltese Islands. It is not expected that the situation will improve till at least late this evening.

Traffic jams have been reported in many areas affected by flooding near Mater Dei Hospital, St Anne Street in Floriana, Nazju Elul Street in Gzira, Mriehel bypass near the Farsons factory, the Kappara junction and the St Julian's tunnels. The environs of Valley Road, in Msida and Birkirkara have been inaccessbile to vehicles due to the flooding.

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Valley Road, Birkirkara. Posted on Facebook by Jon Camilleri.

Water spouts photographed from Dingli cliffs. Uploaded on Facebook by Jon Spiteri.

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