Temperatures in Malta beat heat record at 41.3°C

Jun 26 2021

It’s no question that Malta is experiencing one of the most scorching heat waves ever recorded. But Friday saw the heat reaching new record heights at 41.3°C after the hottest June day on record. The Malta Meteorological Office stated that temperature around the island arose by 1°C compared to Thursday, when temperatures of 40.2°C made it the hottest day in June sing 1923. Such temperatures affecting Malta had only been recorded once in 1997, on June 13th.

A spokesperson for the Met Office told Times of Malta that on that day, temperature had reached a maximum of 40.1 degrees Celsius. The heatwave is expected to continue on through next week, with temperatures forecasted to reach 39°C, with UV reaching a dangerous 11. Health authorities warn people to stay protected, whether going to the beach or staying indoors by staying hydrated and keeping away from the sun’s peak heat hours.

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: Remax Malta Blog

WATCH: Large crowds gather in Paceville entertainment mecca with little enforcement

Jun 26 2021

Footage shows large groups of people gathered in Paceville’s entertainment mecca with very little police presence in the area. Many can be seen clearly breaking social distancing rules and mask restrictions. Despite several health restrictions being imposed on clubs and bars by the health authorities, the crowd gathering problems are not being addressed by the relevant authorities.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Malta Daily (@maltadaily.mt)

Inspections are only taking place within establishments themselves whereas people are gathering in huge masses outside the very clubs and bars that are forced to close. Yesterday, opening times were extended until 2 a.m as of Monday, but the issue of gathering crowds still seems to be ongoing. Police were present in the area but were clearly not enough to stop the incident. Full opening times are being called for so as to mitigate such events and ensure the safety of all those going to enjoy their night safely.

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: sezerryilmzzz

70% of adults officially fully vaccinated against COVID-19

Jun 26 2021

Health Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne announced on Saturday that 70% of Malta’s adult population has been fully vaccinated. Just over one month after Malta managed to administer at least the first jab to 70% of its population, the statistic shows the successful vaccine rollout Malta has managed. Malta achieved herd immunity on the 24th of May 2021, and is the first EU country to fully vaccinate 70% of adults, leading the 27 nation bloc in terms of vaccine rollout speed.

The Minister also stated how 81% have at least taken the first dose by now, with 650,000 total doses given. The focus was given to over-16s so far but the rollout is gradually moving to younger age groups. Parents can expect invitation letters to arrive soon as the battle against the pandemic continues.

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: Chris Fearne FB

Derek Chauvin sentenced to 22.5 years in prison for George Floyd murder

Jun 26 2021

Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin has been sentenced to 22 years and six months in prison for second degree murder of George Floyd. Appearing in court on Friday, the 45-year-old was found guilty on three charges related to Floyd’s death two months beforehand. The sentence was a ten year increase to the state’s recommended sentencing. The prosecutors argued that Chauvin should face harsher sentencing due to a range of aggravating factors.

Judge Peter Cahill stated that the decision was not based on emotion or sympathy but added that he wanted to acknowledge the deep and tremendous pain all the families, especially the Floyd family, were feeling. The announcement followed victim impact statements from members of the Floyd family, including his 7-year-old daughter Gianna who stated that she missed her father and loved him.

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: MARCA, KTTC