After enduring several days of scorching temperatures, Malta is finally set to experience some relief as cooler weather arrives from Friday onwards.

Wednesday is expected to be the hottest day of the forecast period, with temperatures soaring to 41°C and a real feel of 44°C under clear, sunny skies. The intense heat will continue into Thursday, although temperatures are forecast to ease slightly to 36°C, with a real feel of 41°C.

A more noticeable change arrives on Friday, when daytime highs are expected to drop to 32°C, before falling further to 30°C on Saturday. While still warm by most standards, the lower temperatures will come as a welcome break after this week's extreme heatwave. Sunday and Monday are also expected to remain more comfortable, with highs of 31°C and 33°C respectively.

The change will also be accompanied by shifting wind patterns. Moderate northwesterly winds on Friday will gradually turn to southeasterly over the weekend, becoming stronger by Sunday and Monday. Sea conditions are forecast to become rougher towards the end of the weekend, particularly for those planning boat trips or spending time along exposed coastlines.

Despite the drop in temperatures, sunshine is expected to dominate throughout the six-day forecast, with just a 5% chance of rain each day and no measurable rainfall anticipated. UV levels will remain very high, with a UV Index of 10 throughout the period, meaning sun protection will continue to be essential.

While it won't exactly feel cool, the return to temperatures closer to the seasonal average should offer some welcome respite after one of the hottest spells of the summer.

Are you looking forward to a breezier few days?