The Meteorological Office has advised that Carnival days, particularly Carnival Sunday and Monday, are expected to be characterised by rather unstable weather and strong winds, which are forecast to persist beyond today.
At present, the Meteorological Office said it has a red weather warning (the highest level of warning) in force due to strong Northwesterly winds that may reach gale force (Force 8), especially over the exposed areas of the Maltese Islands. This warning will remain in force until 6am tomorrow, Friday 13th of February.
Weather conditions during the first two days of celebrations, Friday, the 13th and Saturday 14th, are expected to be partly cloudy, with the possibility of isolated rain showers on Friday and Saturday night. However, weather that could significantly disrupt Carnival celebrations across the Maltese Islands is not expected, the Met Office said.
Friday is expected to begin with strong West-Northwesterly winds reaching Force 7. As the day progresses, the wind will veer West-Southwesterly and ease to moderate to rather strong levels (Force 4 to 5). Winds are forecast to strengthen again on Saturday evening.
Over these two days, daytime temperatures will range between 18°C and 19°C, falling to around 13°C to 14°C during the evening hours.
Conditions are expected to become more unsettled on Carnival Sunday, with isolated showers that may be thundery. Northwesterly winds are forecast to strengthen to Force 6 to 7.
Unstable conditions are also forecast to persist on Monday, with further showers expected throughout the day. Winds will remain rather strong to strong.
The Met Office said that final day of Carnival may be somewhat more favourable for enthusiasts and those wishing to enjoy the grand finale parade.
For Tuesday, the 17th, the weather is expected to be partly cloudy, although winds will remain rather strong to strong (Force 5 to 6), becoming strong (Force 6) from the West-Southwest later in the evening.
Strong Northwesterly winds are also expected to bring a drop in temperatures. Between Sunday and Tuesday, maximum temperatures are not expected to exceed 16°C, while evening temperatures may fall to around 11°C.
File photo: Gozo News/Alain Salvary