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Shifting climate patterns! Malta experiences 10th consecutive December with below-average rainfall
The national mean rainfall stands at around 30mm.

Lyndsey Grima

According to popular Facebook page, Maltese Islands Weather, December 2024 is shaping up to be the 10th consecutive December with rainfall well below the historical average in Malta. With less than a week remaining in the month, the national mean rainfall stands at around 30 mm, which is only 32% of the typical climate norm for this time of year.

Despite a few isolated showers predicted, these will not be sufficient to bring the total anywhere close to the usual amount.

Looking at long-term trends, December has shown the greatest deviation from average precipitation in recent years, with the decline in rainfall being particularly noticeable over the past few decades.

Between 1981 and 2010, the average rainfall for December was 109.2 mm. However, in the 1991-2020 period, this decreased to 93.7 mm. The trend has accelerated further in the past 14 years, with the average for December 2010 to 2024 falling to just 50.8 mm.

This significant reduction in rainfall is a clear indication of shifting climate patterns, likely influenced by broader global climate change. As Malta continues to experience less rainfall each December, it underscores the growing importance of addressing water conservation and climate adaptation strategies, especially for island nations that rely on stable weather patterns for their water resources.

The trend highlights the need for continued awareness and action on climate change, as even relatively small changes in weather can have a profound impact on Malta's environment, economy, and daily life.

Are you wishing for rainier months in 2025?

26th December 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.

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