7 Day Heatwave Comes To An End, But High Temperatures To Persist

Malta's first heatwave of 2026 is expected to come to an end after seven consecutive days of exceptionally high temperatures, during which the Meteorological Office recorded the hottest July temperature in the past century.

The highest temperature of the heatwave, 43.3°C, was recorded on Saturday 18 July. It is also just 0.5°C below Malta's all time highest temperature of 43.8°C, which was recorded in August 1999.

The heatwave began on Thursday 16 July, when temperatures reached 38.1°C.

Although temperatures dipped slightly to 36.8°C the following day, they remained around 5°C above July's average maximum of 31.7°C. From then onwards, temperatures consistently exceeded 38°C, with readings above 42°C recorded over the last three days.

According to the Meteorological Office, this was the first time temperatures have exceeded 42°C for three consecutive days since records began. The prolonged extreme heat prompted the office to issue a Red Weather Warning, its highest alert level.

Meteorologists said the heatwave was caused by an Omega Block, a slow moving weather pattern created by a high pressure system extending from North Africa across the central Mediterranean between two cooler low pressure systems.

Although the heatwave is expected to end, temperatures over the coming days are still forecast to range between 33°C and 35°C, which remains above average for many parts of Europe.

A Yellow Weather Warning is expected to be issued, with the public urged to continue limiting prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and to follow health advice.

Humidity is forecast to increase as winds shift to the east southeast overnight. Moderate to rather strong northwesterly winds on Friday are expected to provide temporary relief before southerly winds return over the weekend.

The public is also encouraged to take extra care of children and vulnerable people.

#MaltaDaily