In Malta, May is often the most deceptive month of the year. As the winter dampness fades, the islands are treated to crisp air & refreshing sea breezes that make outdoor dining & coastal walks incredibly tempting. However, there is a hidden risk: while the air remains mild, the sun is already reaching its summer intensity.

It is during these weeks that we see the first significant wave of sunburn cases, largely because the cooling effect of the wind masks the actual heat on the skin.

Understanding The UV Index

By the time May arrives, the sun sits at a much higher angle in the sky than it did only a few weeks prior. This results in a sharp increase in Ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Even on days when the thermometer barely touches 22°C, the UV Index frequently hits 8 or 9.

According to World Health Organisation standards, this is classified as Very High. At these levels, unprotected skin can begin to burn in as little as 15 to 20 minutes, particularly for those with fairer complexions.

A Dangerous Distraction

One of the most common mistakes made in Malta is equating temperature with sun strength. This is particularly prevalent in elevated or coastal areas.

Take a walk along Dingli Cliffs or the Sliema Promenade on a windy May afternoon. The air temperature might feel like a comfortable 20°C due to the constant breeze. However, your UV exposure is nearly identical to a sweltering 35°C day in mid-August. The wind cools your sweat & lowers your skin’s surface temperature, stripping away the natural warning sign of heat & leaving you unaware that you are burning until you head indoors.

Protecting Yourself Early

Whether you’re at a terrace diner enjoying a long lunch in Valletta or an outdoor worker starting a morning shift, the time to implement a high-SPF routine is now.

• Apply Early: Don’t wait until you feel warm. Apply SPF 30 or higher before leaving the house.
• Peak Hours: Seek shade between 11AM & 4PM, when the UV radiation is at its most vertical & intense.
• Don’t Forget The Basics: Broad-brimmed hats & UV-rated sunglasses are essential, especially as the limestone buildings in Malta reflect a significant amount of light back onto the face.

The May sun has teeth – don’t let the pleasant breeze fool you into a painful week of recovery.