Malta has shattered meteorological records by registering three consecutive days with temperatures reaching 42°C or higher, fuelled by a persistent weather pattern known as an Omega Block.

The current heatwave, which began on July 16, reached a peak last Saturday when temperatures hit 43.3°C, surpassing the previous July record of 42.7°C set in 1988 and 2023. The previous record for consecutive days above 42°C stood at two days, set in July 2023.

The prolonged extreme heat is caused by a bulge of high pressure stretching from North Africa across the central Mediterranean, trapped between two cooler low-pressure systems. This slow-moving system has kept hot, dry conditions locked over the islands for over a week.

In response to the extreme weather, health authorities issued urgent warnings, advising the public to limit sun exposure and stay hydrated. High-risk individuals, including those over 75 with chronic conditions or specific medications, have been offered access to designated cooling centres via SMS instructions.

Prime Minister Robert Abela also addressed the public, apologizing for recent power cuts and pointing to the escalating impacts of climate change on rising temperatures. Relief is finally on the horizon, with temperatures forecast to ease starting Thursday.