Hazy skies and health alerts! Saharan dust clouds a changing week in the Maltese Islands
Conditions are expected to get better after midweek.
This week across the Maltese Islands begins with warm but increasingly unsettled conditions, according to Maltese Islands Weather. Although today, Monday was mainly supposed to be sunny with highs around 27°C, the skies are hazy and dusty.
A notable shift arrives on Tuesday as temperatures are expected to drop and afternoon thunderstorms will develop. Midweek brings cooler, cloudier weather, with highs between 19–21°C and a mix of partial sunshine and isolated showers through Thursday. By Friday and Saturday, conditions stabilise into partly cloudy skies with moderate temperatures and lighter seas.
However, the most significant update is today’s air quality alert. Very unhealthy Air Quality Index levels have been recorded due to Saharan dust transported by southeasterly Scirocco winds across the central Mediterranean. Concentrations of PM10 (coarser dust particles) and PM2.5 (finer, more dangerous particles) are significantly elevated, posing health risks to everyone, not just vulnerable groups.
Today until Wednesday, you may notice hazy skies, reduced visibility, and irritation to the eyes and respiratory system. Authorities advise limiting outdoor exposure, keeping windows closed, and taking extra care if you have respiratory conditions.
Relief is expected after midweek, when shifting winds should disperse the dust plume, gradually restoring healthier air quality across the islands.
Are you ready for a new hazy week ahead?