New & now
Malta facing marine heatwave! Here’s why you might be feeling less refreshed after a swim
Currently, the sea surface temperature around the Maltese Islands stands at 29°C, approximately 2°C above the average.

Lyndsey Grima

According to The Maltese Islands Weather Facebook page, Malta is currently facing a marine heatwave, with sea surface temperatures around the Mediterranean Sea reaching up to 30°C.

The first 10 meters of water surrounding the Maltese Islands are averaging between 28°C and 29°C, significantly higher than the norm. This unusual warmth has left many swimmers feeling less refreshed after a dip in the sea.

This rise in sea temperatures poses a severe threat to marine ecosystems. Many marine species are not adapted to these warmer conditions and suffer from poor health or even mortality. The life cycles of numerous marine species, particularly regarding reproduction, can be severely disrupted.

Additionally, shallower marine ecosystems experience degradation, and fluctuations in dissolved oxygen levels become more pronounced. Warmer waters also facilitate the spread of alien species, which threaten the survival of indigenous marine life.

Currently, the sea surface temperature around the Maltese Islands stands at 29°C, approximately 2°C above the average. While this may seem like a slight increase, it is significant. Elevated sea surface temperatures inhibit nighttime cooling, causing nighttime lows to remain much higher than usual, even more so than daytime highs. This contributes to increased evaporation rates, leading to higher humidity levels. Consequently, a 30°C day can feel as hot as 38°C in high humidity.

The implications of this marine heatwave extend beyond immediate discomfort. As summer transitions into autumn, cooler air from Europe will begin to move into the central Mediterranean, clashing with the warm local air. This stark contrast can destabilise the atmosphere, potentially resulting in more vigorous and severe weather systems. Moreover, the excess moisture from the warm sea can be absorbed into these systems, fueling their intensity.

Did you notice that the sea is relatively warmer this year?

22nd July 2024


Lyndsey Grima
Written by
Lyndsey Grima
Lyndsey has always been passionate about all things content. She keeps her storytelling skills sharp by exercising physically as she’s a fitness buff and also mentally as she enjoys reading and travelling.

You may also like...
New & now
New & now
The much-loved Collegiate Church shines in all its splendour, as the country prepares to celebrate the National Feast dedicated to St Paul’s Shipwreck on Malta in AD60.

Edward Bonello
New & now
New & now
A tale that adds a touch of sweetness to this chapel’s origin.

Lyndsey Grima
New & now
New & now
This Danish singer was 2013’s winner with song ‘Only Teardrops!’

Lyndsey Grima
New & now
New & now
This hardy plant thrives in rocky and dry areas, often growing along rural paths, cliffs, and open fields

Lyndsey Grima