Red Weather Warning Issued in Malta as Temperatures Soar
Malta has turned up the thermostat, with a red heat warning in force as temperatures are set to hit a sizzling 41°C on Monday. Visitors can still enjoy the islands by staying hydrated, seeking shade, and saving sightseeing adventures for the cooler morning and evening hours.
If you’re visiting Malta over the next few days, get ready for some serious Mediterranean sunshine. The islands are set to experience one of the hottest spells of the summer, with the Malta Meteorological Office issuing a red heat warning as temperatures are forecast to climb to 41°C on Monday, with a real feel of up to 42°C.
While Malta is famous for its long, sunny summers, this heatwave is exceptional. The good news? With a little planning, plenty of water, and a slower pace during the hottest hours of the day, you can still enjoy everything the Maltese Islands have to offer, from refreshing morning swims and boat trips to exploring historic towns before ending the day with dinner by the sea.
Temperatures will begin climbing on Saturday, reaching around 39°C, before rising to 40°C on Sunday and peaking at 41°C on Monday. Thanks to high humidity, it will feel even warmer, with the real feel expected to reach 42°C.
The intense heat is forecast to ease gradually from Tuesday, with temperatures falling to 40°C, before dropping further to around 36°C on Wednesday.
Lagon bleu
Why Is It So Hot?
According to the Malta Meteorological Office, the current heatwave is being driven by an Omega Block, a weather pattern that traps a large area of high pressure over the Mediterranean while blocking cooler air from moving into the region. The combination of intense sunshine and elevated humidity is also responsible for the higher “Real Feel” temperatures.
This same weather pattern has brought exceptionally high temperatures across southern Europe and has contributed to increased wildfire risk in several Mediterranean countries.
A heatwave doesn’t mean putting your holiday on hold, it simply means adjusting your schedule.
The best time to explore Malta’s historic cities, archaeological sites and walking trails is during the early morning or late afternoon and evening, when temperatures are more comfortable. The hottest hours of the day are perfect for relaxing by the pool, enjoying a leisurely lunch indoors, visiting one of Malta’s museums, or taking advantage of air-conditioned cafés, restaurants and shopping centres.
Beach lovers should also remember that while the sea offers welcome relief, the sun remains extremely strong throughout the day.
Sunset at Goldey Bay
To enjoy your stay safely during the heatwave, visitors are encouraged to:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- Avoid direct sun exposure between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm whenever possible.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colours.
- Apply high-factor sunscreen regularly and wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Seek shade or air-conditioned spaces during the hottest part of the day.
- Choose light meals such as salads, fruit and other refreshing foods.
- Limit strenuous outdoor activities until the morning or evening.
- Avoid excessive alcohol, coffee and caffeinated soft drinks, which can contribute to dehydration.
- Never leave children, elderly people or pets inside parked vehicles.
- Seek medical advice immediately if you experience symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, nausea or heat exhaustion.
Extra care should be taken with young children, older adults, pregnant women and anyone with existing medical conditions, as they are more vulnerable to extreme temperatures.
Malta continues to welcome visitors as normal, and all major attractions, beaches, restaurants and tourism services remain open. With a few simple precautions and a flexible itinerary, travellers can still enjoy everything the islands have to offer while staying comfortable during this period of exceptional heat.
Visitors are encouraged to keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts and follow any guidance issued by Malta’s public health authorities throughout the heatwave.
