Damage from Severe Weather in Cyprus: Heavy Rains, Hail, Landslides, and Tornadoes

This past weekend, Cyprus was struck by a powerful storm, bringing thunderstorms, large hail, and even a tornado. The severe weather caused significant damage, including fires, landslides, and road closures.

According to the Forest Department, a fire broke out at 1:25 PM in the Mazeri area of Geraki in Nicosia, triggered by a lightning strike. Four firefighters responded with two fire trucks, and by 2:00 PM, the flames were extinguished. The only reported damage was the complete destruction of a pine tree.

The harsh weather first affected the mountainous regions, where large hailstones covered the roads. Landslides also forced the closure of the Platres-Troodos road, making it dangerous for vehicles due to rocks and mud blocking the way.

As in the previous weekend, the hardest-hit areas were Paphos and Limassol. A waterspout was even spotted in the Pissouri area near Limassol.

The police issued warnings about hazardous driving conditions on the Limassol-Paphos highway, particularly in Paramali, Sotira, Petra tou Romiou, and Kouklia. Accumulated water and hail on the roads created dangerous conditions for vehicles.

Traffic disruptions were also reported on the Avdima-Pakhna road due to the combination of hail and heavy rainfall.

Furthermore, one lane of the Mandria-Pera Pedi road and the Gerasa-Agros route were closed due to water buildup.

Meanwhile, the village of Lofu was flooded, and strong hailstorms also affected Peristerona.

The extreme weather forced the cancellation of several Sunday festivals scheduled for the weekend. Although some communities attempted to adapt to the weather, the heavy downpours left them with no option but to cancel the events.

A yellow weather alert was in place from 6:00 PM on Sunday until 6:00 AM on Monday.