Meteorologists warn of strong winds, rough seas

Winds of up to 50 kilometres per hour as well as rough seas are expected to grip Malta today, meteorologists have warned.

The MET Office warned that Malta would be hit by strong and very strong Easterly winds that will later veer to strong East Southeast winds. The sea is rough while significant wave heights are expected to hit Malta’s shores.

The MET office issued a “Yellow warning”, urging people to be aware of the bad weather and to plan ahead due to the possible travel delays or disruptions.

The warning remains valid until 9pm, it said.

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

Strong winds have so far been reported off the coast of Selmun and Valletta with winds of up to 26 knots recorded. Heavy rainfall was also recorded in Xaghra, Gozo, Valletta, and Dingli.

The wind is mainly due to a trough of low pressure which extended from Algeria to the West Mediterranean. The Met office warned that winds between Force 6 and 7 would hit Malta, before it subsides later tonight.

Meteorologists have warned that on Monday, Force 7 winds will hit Malta before subsiding on Tuesday. Despite the wind, the weather is expected to remain mild throughout the week with temperatures varying between 16 °C and 19 °C.