Malta Braces for 37°C Heatwave
As the sun begins to set over the bustling streets of Republic Street in Valletta, the usual evening breeze is nowhere to be found. Instead, the air is thick and heavy, a harbinger of the sweltering night ahead. The weather warning is clear: temperatures are set to feel as hot as 37°C, and the heatwave shows no signs of abating.
Unseasonal Heat Blankets Malta
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for high temperatures, with the heat index expected to reach a scorching 37°C in some parts of Malta. This unseasonal heatwave has taken many by surprise, with August-like temperatures gripping the islands in late June.
In the heart of Sliema, usually a haven for evening strollers, residents and tourists alike are seeking refuge indoors. “It’s like a furnace out here,” grumbles Joe, a local resident, as he retreats into the cool of a nearby café. “I’ve never felt June this hot in Malta.”
Health Warnings Issued
The Ministry of Health has issued public health warnings, advising the elderly, children, and those with health conditions to stay indoors during peak hours. “Hydration is key,” says Dr. Lorraine Schembri, a public health specialist. “Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. And remember, it’s not just the temperature, but the humidity too.”
Local pharmacies have reported a surge in sales of sun cream, rehydration solutions, and cooling products. “We’ve had to restock several times today,” says Maria, a pharmacist in Msida. “People are taking the warning seriously, which is a good thing.”
Impact on Tourism and Business
The heatwave is also having an impact on Malta’s thriving tourism industry. Beachgoers are flocking to the island’s coastal areas, while some tourists are seeking indoor activities. “We’ve seen a spike in bookings for our museums and cultural tours,” says Anna, a tour operator in St. Julian’s. “People are looking for ways to beat the heat.”
Meanwhile, local businesses are feeling the heat, quite literally. “It’s been tough,” says Tony, owner of a popular Valletta café. “Business has slowed down because people aren’t keen to sit outside. But we’re making the most of it, offering cold drinks and ice cream specials.”
As the sun begins to rise again over the silent streets of Valletta, the heatwave shows no signs of abating. The question on everyone’s mind is: how long will this unseasonal heat last, and what impact will it have on Malta’s people, businesses, and tourism?
