Ritratt ta’ Neil CamilleriTista’ taqra bil-
Malti.
Periods of moderate rain, with the potential to intensify, are expected in the coming hours as strong winds gradually weaken. Rainfall is forecast to affect parts of, or possibly the entire, Maltese Islands.
Earlier today, south-easterly winds were still blowing at force 8. However, in a statement, the Uffiċċju Meteoroloġiku confirmed that gale-force winds are expected to start losing strength later this afternoon.
From around 6pm, winds are forecast to decrease rapidly, becoming moderate by 9pm. They will then veer towards the west-southwest, remaining moderate to occasionally fresh.
The change in conditions is linked to weather depression Harry, currently positioned over the Gulf of Gabès. Throughout the day, the system is expected to move northwards and pass over northern Tunisia, leading to a further reduction in wind strength, particularly overnight.
As a result, the highest-level red weather warning has now been downgraded to an orange alert. Despite this improvement, the public is still being urged to avoid coastal areas and other exposed locations most affected by strong winds.
The warning remains in force until 8pm and may be extended if conditions require.
Alongside the strong winds, today’s weather is expected to remain largely cloudy, with intermittent rain and airborne dust continuing to affect visibility and air quality. The strongest wind gust recorded in recent hours was measured shortly after 7am, reaching 50 knots.
Outlook for the coming days
According to the Meteorological Office, cloudy conditions are set to persist over the next few days, with the possibility of isolated rain showers. Winds may temporarily strengthen again, becoming fresh to strong for a short period on Thursday.
Dust concentrations in the air are expected to decrease on Wednesday, with air quality forecast to fully clear by Friday.
The public is advised to continue following official weather warnings and consult the latest forecasts on maltametoffice.com.
