Malta has been covered by a large cloud of Saharan dust this morning as temperatures continue to soar during another intense spell of summer heat.
The dust cloud, originating from North Africa, stretches from the western Mediterranean and the Balearic Islands towards Malta, according to satellite data from EUMETSAT. The phenomenon has left the Maltese Islands under noticeably hazy skies.
Air quality has also deteriorated, with the Environment and Resources Authority’s monitoring stations across Malta registering poor air quality as a result of elevated PM10 particulate matter. Saharan dust is a significant natural source of PM10 and can aggravate respiratory conditions when concentrations become particularly high.
The Saharan dust coincides with another period of intense heat. The Meteorological Office is forecasting a maximum temperature of 36°C today, although the apparent temperature is expected to reach approximately 43°C as a result of the atmospheric conditions and humidity.
Temperatures are expected to remain extremely high throughout the weekend. The maximum is forecast to rise further over the coming days, while by Sunday temperatures could reach 38°C and feel as hot as 45°C. Overnight temperatures will also remain unusually high at around 27°C to 28°C.
An orange weather warning is currently in force as the prolonged heat continues to place pressure on the country. Several localities have also experienced electricity cuts this week, with Enemalta reporting isolated faults across its distribution network.
Feature photo by EUMETSAT.
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