With Malta experiencing a wave of unbearable heat, few would imagine that not so far away, in nearby central Italy, a hail-storm has caused damages and forced bathers to run away for shelter as hailstones “as big as oranges” hit.

The temperature in Malta is a staggering 37 degrees Celsius, with a feel like factor of 40 degrees, and it is only as from tomorrow Thursday that it will go down to 33 (feel like 36) and 31 on Friday (feel like 34). It was stiflingly hot, with a burning wind making it hard to breathe and promoting advice from health authorities to avoid being out in the hotter hours of the day, drink lots of water and wear light clothing.

The same weather is being experienced in Sicily and the southern part of Italy, but residents and tourists in the central and northern parts of Italy have been struck by abnormal weather for this time of the year.

Italian media has reported that a hail-storm has hit the central regions, forcing bathers in Rimini to rush to safety as strong winds and high waves hit the beaches. Hailstones as big as oranges were reported in Pescara, while trees have been uprooted in several places.

Photos: tgcom