Summer temperatures are set to reach sweltering levels as the mercury rises to highs of 36 degrees Celsius over the next four days. 

The searing heat will bake Malta until Saturday before making way to cooler gusts of breezy weather on Sunday, according to weather forecasters at the Malta International Airport's Met Office. 

And though the beating sun is expected to hide away behind cloud cover for much of tomorrow, temperatures and the UV index will remain at dangerously high levels, with the latter hovering at 11 and never dipping below 10.

The UV index measures levels of solar radiation and serves as an indicator of exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays, which cause sunburn, skin ageing and genetic skin cell damage that can lead to cancer.

The MIA Met Office is predicting some hot, hot weather. Screenshot: MIA

UV index measurements of 10 suggests risk conditions are at their peak. Figures of 11 or higher signify extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. 

The air temperature will high a high of 36 degrees Celsius on Thursday, though it will feel even hotter - 39 degrees - in reality. 

Health warnings

With high temperatures on the horizon, the Health Division this morning reminded the public of the health risks of such weather. 

To avoid the effects of the heat wave, you should: 

• Steer clear of direct sunlight exposure between 11am and 4pm 
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and replace lost fluids
• Stay cool by ensuring you are in the coolest parts of your home or workplace
• Ensure you use sun protection with a high rating if you are going to be exposed to the sun 

Children, babies and the elderly face the greatest risk of serious harm due to high temperatures. Those with chronic conditions or people who are physically active must also take care to avoid harmful effects.