In this post, we will be answering some of your most frequently asked questions about the current meteorological situation:

1) Some facts about spring till now:

If you’ve felt that this year’s spring has so far been colder and wetter, you’re absolutely right! In a typical year, from 21st March till 12th May, the Maltese Islands would receive 41.7 mm of rainfall. This year, from 21st March till 12th May, 90.8 mm were measured at our weather station in Għarb. Over the same time frame, the Maltese Islands would normally enjoy highs of 20.3 C and lows of 13.0 C. So far this spring, our weather station has recorded a mean high of 18.6 C and an average low of 12.6 C. Another very important point to note is the increased frequency of days with strong winds.

2) What is causing it?

As seen on the chart, a high pressure system covers much of northern Europe. This anomalous high pressure system has been anchored over Scandinavia for weeks. This anticyclone acts as a barrier, preventing storm systems from moving across northern Europe, and deviating them south towards southern Europe. This is also encouraging more low pressure systems to form over north Africa than usual. For the Maltese Islands this implies unstable weather, with a mix of desert and northern European weather, unlike the usual gradual improvement in weather conditions we normally experience in spring.

4) What are the projections for the near future?

Of course, spring has many weeks to go, and the meteorological situation may improve. Long term maps do not provide a very bright outlook, however. Temperatures are expected to rise in the second half of May, but strong winds and the occasional rainy day will continue to be a common feature for the rest of spring, and possibly also the start of summer. As explained in an update some days ago, this year’s summer is expected to be hotter but wetter than normal. We will have a clearer picture in the days ahead.

If you have any other questions please write these as comments below and we will answer them. Thanks!