10 Things You Should Do To Beat The Heat
Malta’s Health Ministry has issued a full-scale Extreme Heat Warning as soaring temperatures are expected to reach up to 40 °C this week. In response, Minister Jo‑Etienne Abela unveiled a comprehensive safety plan that includes an early warning system in collaboration with the Meteorological Office, public health campaigns, and SMS alerts to inform residents in Malta and Gozo about upcoming heatwaves and how to stay safe.
The ministry has also introduced practical measures to protect the most vulnerable populations, such as day centres offering cool refuges, and advice to the public to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during peak hours, and seek shade all part of an effort to prevent heat-related strain on vital organs and save lives.
Here are 10 Smart Ways to Beat the Heat in Malta’s Scorching Summer:
1. Hydrate constantly – Water is your best friend. Drink regularly, even if you’re not thirsty, and keep a refillable bottle with you at all times. Dehydration can sneak up quickly in extreme heat.
2. Reapply sunscreen often – A single morning application isn’t enough. Reapply SPF 30+ sunscreen every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming, to avoid burns and long-term skin damage.
3. Find and stick to the shade – Whether you’re out at the beach, walking in town, or enjoying a festa, take breaks in shaded areas to give your body a chance to cool down.
4. Carry a handheld fan or cooling device – Portable fans or mini mist sprays can be surprisingly effective. You can also dampen a cloth or cooling towel and place it on your neck for immediate relief.
5. Wear a wide-brimmed hat or cap – Protect your face, scalp, and neck from direct sun exposure. It’s a simple but effective barrier against sunstroke and heat exhaustion.
6. Avoid peak heat hours (usually 11am–4pm) – If you can, plan indoor activities or errands during these hours. This is when UV rays are strongest and the risk of heat-related illnesses is highest.
7. Skip the dehydrating drinks – Coffee, sugary sodas, and alcohol can dehydrate you further. Instead, opt for water, herbal teas, or electrolyte-rich drinks to keep your body balanced.
8. Replenish lost electrolytes – When you sweat, you lose vital salts. Coconut water, oral rehydration solutions, or electrolyte tablets can help you stay energised and prevent heat exhaustion.
9. Dress wisely – Choose light-coloured, loose-fitting, breathable clothes made of cotton or linen. Dark, tight fabrics trap heat and make it harder for your body to cool down.
10. Don’t hesitate to get help – If you or someone around you shows signs of dizziness, rapid pulse, nausea, or confusion, seek medical attention immediately. Heatstroke is a medical emergency.
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