The Malta Met Office said that during Holy Week, Maundy Thursday is likely to be the most unsettled and wintry day, rain showers expected throughout Good Friday, however sunshine set to return on Easter Sunday.
The unsettled conditions currently affecting the central Mediterranean are expected to persist over the Maltese Islands, particularly up to Good Friday.
Maundy Thursday is expected to be dominated by cloudy skies, with rain showers likely throughout the day, some of which may be thundery. Winds will also persist, with West-Northwest winds strengthening to Force 5 to 6 by the morning, increasing further to Force 6 later in the day.
Weather warnings that are currently in force, both for strong winds and potentially heavy showers, including hail, may be extended into Thursday, the Met Office said.
Maundy Thursday is also expected to be the coldest day of this period, with temperatures reaching a high of 14°C and dropping to 10°C overnight. However, strong winds may make it feel significantly colder, particularly in the evening as many participate in traditional church visits.
Good Friday is expected to bring weather typical for the season with windy and showery conditions that may pose challenges for procession organisers, the Met Office said. While conditions are expected to improve slightly when compared to Thursday, isolated showers remain likely throughout the day, particularly during the morning and afternoon.
Northwesterly winds will remain strong to rather strong (Force 5 to 6), gradually easing to Force 5, with temperatures reaching a high of 16°C before dropping to around 11°C in the evening.
Conditions are forecast to gradually improve from Holy Saturday, although isolated showers cannot be ruled out. Winds are expected to ease significantly, though it will remain on the cool side as they turn Northwesterly.
Current forecasts indicate that sunshine is set to return on Easter Sunday, bringing welcome news for parishes organising traditional processions and celebrations. The day is expected to be partly cloudy with light Northwesterly winds, with temperatures rising to 16°C and falling to around 11°C overnight.
While wishing everyone a Happy Easter,the Met Office encouraged the to visit www.maltametoffice.com [1] for the latest weather updates.
File photo: Gozo News/Alain Salvary