Red alert issued in Cyprus due to dust storm

The Cyprus Department of Meteorology has issued a red weather alert due to a dense dust cloud arriving from North Africa.

According to forecasters, the bulk of the dust will remain over the island until the morning of April 4, with the warning in effect until 03:00. The dust cloud is associated with a low-pressure area that previously brought rain and unstable weather to the region.

Dust concentration exceeded dozens of times

As of 09:00 in Nicosia, PM10 particle levels reached 1449 µg/m³, which is nearly 29 times higher than the safe level.

An even higher figure was recorded in the Agia Marina area in the Troodos Mountains — 2047 µg/m³.

In other cities, the situation also remains unfavorable:

• Limassol — exceeded by more than 5 times
• Paphos — by more than 15 times
• Larnaca — by more than 11 times

PM10 are microparticles less than 10 micrometers in diameter that easily enter the respiratory tract. They can cause coughing, respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and bronchitis.

The Meteorological Service advises:

• children, the elderly, and people with chronic diseases should stay indoors if possible;
• limit physical activity outdoors;
• use respirators or protective masks when working outside.

Forecasters warn that dust concentrations may change sharply over the weekend and continue to monitor the situation.