Malta faces hottest weekend of the year so far
Malta is preparing for several days of extreme heat, with a red weather warning coming into force as temperatures climb towards 41°C.
According to the Malta Meteorological Office forecast reported on Friday, temperatures are expected to reach 39°C on Saturday, 40°C on Sunday and 41°C on Monday. Monday’s real-feel temperature could reach approximately 42°C.
The red “take action” warning is expected to run from Saturday morning until Tuesday evening. It is the highest warning level used by Malta’s Meteorological Office and signals weather conditions that may create a serious health risk.
Stay out of the midday heat
Health guidance advises people to avoid going out unnecessarily between approximately 11am and 4pm, when the heat is at its strongest.
Strenuous exercise, physically demanding work and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight should be avoided during these hours wherever possible.
Anyone who must go outside should seek shade, wear a hat and loose, light-coloured clothing, apply sunscreen and carry enough water. Water should be drunk regularly rather than waiting until thirst becomes intense.
Alcohol and large amounts of caffeinated or sugary drinks may make it harder to remain properly hydrated.
Who is most at risk?
Extreme heat can affect anyone, but additional care is needed for older adults, babies and young children, pregnant people, outdoor workers and people with heart, kidney, respiratory or other chronic medical conditions.
Those living without adequate cooling facilities may also face a greater risk. People taking regular medication should not change their treatment themselves but may wish to seek advice from their doctor or pharmacist.
Health authorities have escalated Malta’s Heat Health Action Plan and said cooling centres are being activated in different localities for highly vulnerable people who do not have adequate cooling at home.
Check on people who may need help
Residents are encouraged to contact older relatives, neighbours and friends, particularly those who live alone.
Make sure they have drinking water, that their home is not becoming dangerously hot and that they can access a cooler location where needed.
Signs of dehydration include a dry mouth, intense thirst, dark urine and passing urine less frequently. Dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache, cramps and heavy sweating may indicate heat exhaustion.
For medical advice, call 21 231 231. Confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness or other signs of heatstroke require an immediate call to 112.
