Malta braces for gale-force winds, five-metre waves

Gale-force winds up to Force 8 as well as very rough seas at least five metres high are expected to grip Malta this afternoon, the MET office has warned.

Meteorologists have also warned that a cold snap is expected to grip Malta, with temperatures expected to fall to at least 6°C during the coming days.

In its warning, the MET office stated that a Southwest Force 7 wind, which will veer Westerly, will be strong to very strong over the Maltese islands, while possible gale-force winds of up to Force 8 may strike exposed areas.

The sea is rough and becoming very rough while maximum significant wave heights are expected to be 5.2 metres.

The wind is mainly due to a cold front over Italy moving southeastwards, while a low pressure system over the Adriatic sea is moving towards the central Mediterranean.

The weather over the next 24 hours is expected to be partly cloud with showers later. Tonight, thundery showers as well as hail are also expected to hit Malta.

The gale force winds will also be dangerous for boats sailing or berthed along the coast, while some slight damage may occur inland, especially on hilltops and exposed areas.