The Malta Airport MetOffice has said that it would like to advise the general public that the Maltese Islands are currently experiencing a warm and humid spell which is expected to increase through the coming weekend and in the beginning of next week. The maximum temperature is expected to rise to 36°C over the weekend and may go up to 37°C on Monday and Tuesday.

Besides mainly sunny conditions, a high pressure which is almost stationary over the central Mediterranean will maintain light winds with rather high humidity. These conditions could lead to the heat stress index rising up to 45°C on Tuesday.

The mean maximum temperature for the first 10 days of July is 31.3°C, with the highest temperature ever recorded in the same period being 42.7°C on 9th July 1988.

High temperatures cause water to be lost from the body at quick rates resulting in dehydration. It can also lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. The heat can affect anyone but some people run a greater risk of serious harm including older people, babies and young children, people with chronic conditions and physically active people.

To avoid the effects of the heat wave it is important to:

• Keep out of the heat by avoiding any unnecessary exposure to the sun during hot periods of the day usually between 11.00am till 4.00pm. • Stay cool by staying in the coolest parts of the home and work • Drink regularly to make up for the losses and eat more cold food • Seek advice if you have any concerns.

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