Free charging and cooling spots: Businesses step in during heatwave power cuts
Cooling space and free USB-C charging were made available as outages affected several localities
Businesses have stepped in to help people cope with extreme heat and widespread power cuts that left thousands without electricity overnight.
Temperatures reached around 42°C as faults on Enemalta’s grid left neighbourhoods across Malta without power between Monday and Tuesday.
Among the businesses offering help was catering establishment Busy Bee, which opened its Level 1 reception area at its Mrieħel branch to anyone needing a place to cool down.
“For anyone affected by today's power outage, our Level 1 reception area is open for anyone who needs somewhere comfortable to rest and cool down,” Busy Bee posted on social media. “No need to buy anything, just come in, relax, catch some TV, and take a break from the heat.”
Phonitel, a mobile phone sales and repair shop in Naxxar, also offered free emergency USB-C charging for anyone in need.
They posted, "If you’re currently without electricity and have an emergency medical device or a phone that’s essential for medical reasons, or you need to charge a USB-C (Type-C) device used by a child, an elderly family member, or someone who depends on it, we’re here for you."
The shop said it would remain open from 8 am to 8 pm and could be contacted on 79775000.
On Monday night, Enemalta said its technicians were working to restore electricity supplies in Vittoriosa, Cospicua, Żabbar, Attard, Balzan, Fgura, Għargħur, Ħamrun, Kalkara, Lija, Mellieħa, Msida, Naxxar, Pembroke, Pietà, St Paul’s Bay and Swieqi.
The list was not comprehensive. Iklin residents reported a second night without power after supply was briefly restored in the evening.
Power cuts were also reported in parts of Birkirkara and Sliema, while sections of San Ġwann were without electricity by 10.50 am.
Enemalta deployed generators and redirected supplies through substations as technicians worked in sweltering conditions to repair cable faults.
A generator in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq to provide back up power. Photo: Jonathan BorgAt the time of writing, parts of Vittoriosa and Kalkara were still experiencing power cuts lasting more than 14 hours, according to Dlam.mt.
The Health Ministry urged the public to keep cool, avoid direct sunlight and drink water regularly.
The Superintendence of Public Health warned that high temperatures could cause the body to lose water quickly, increasing the risk of dehydration.
People aged over 75 with diabetes or chronic kidney disease, as well as anyone taking lithium, may book a place at one of the designated cooling centres.
Those who meet the criteria should have received an SMS from Public Health inviting them to call a dedicated helpline to reserve a place.