Windy weather forecast for carnival weekend, weather warning issued for Friday

Strong winds, reaching gale-force, are expected to hit Malta in the coming days as the Meteorological Office issues a red weather warning.

The Met Office has issued a red alert, the highest level, for strong winds potentially reaching gale force (Force 8), especially in exposed areas across the Maltese Islands. This warning will stay in effect until 6am on February 13.

“The strong winds are expected to bring down temperatures, with the highest temperature between Sunday and Tuesday not expected to exceed 16°C, while dropping to around 11°C during the night,” the Met Office said.

The first two days of celebrations, 13 February and 14 February, are expected to be partly cloudy, with isolated rain showers possible on Friday and Saturday evenings. However, no severe weather is expected to disrupt carnival celebrations across the Maltese Islands.

Friday is expected to start with strong winds (Force 7), but wind strength is expected to decrease during the day as the wind shifts to the southwest. 

By Friday evening, moderate to slightly strong winds (Force 4 to 5) are anticipated. Winds are expected to strengthen again on Saturday evening.

Over the next few days, daytime temperatures are expected to range from 18°C to 19°C, dropping to around 13°C to 14°C in the evening.

Weather is expected to become more unstable on carnival Sunday, with cloudy conditions, isolated rain showers with possible thunder, and strong winds reaching Force 6 to 7. 

The weather is expected to remain unstable on Monday, with additional rain showers forecast throughout the day and strong to very strong winds.

The final day of Carnival may be slightly kinder to enthusiasts and those wishing to enjoy the final float parade. 

The weather forecast for next week is partly cloudy. However, winds will remain strong to very strong throughout next Tuesday (Force 5 to 6) and become very strong (Force 6) from the southwest in the evening.

The Met Office is expected to issue several warnings for strong winds, and the public is encouraged to visit its website for the latest weather updates.