Malta has been hit by a sand storm that is affecting visibility.

The satellite picture shows the sand storm as it approaches the Maltese Islands from Africa.

A sand storm is a meteorological phenomenon common in arid and semi-arid regions. They occur when a gust front or other strong wind blows sand loose from a dry surface, normally a desert. 

The Met Office at MIA is reporting that the West Southwest wind will be strong, occasionally gusting to gale force over the exposed areas of the Maltese Islands and later on it will veer Westerly. This warning is valid till nine o'clock this evening.