Cyprus Meteorological Service issues orange thunderstorm warning from 10:00 to 19:00

The Cyprus Department of Meteorology has issued an orange warning due to severe thunderstorms. It is in effect on Saturday, 29 August, from 10:00 to 19:00: thunderstorms are expected in places across the island and will be accompanied by intense rain, hail and strong gusts of wind.

According to forecasters, rainfall intensity may reach 55–70 millimetres per hour. Winds will be variable at 3–5 m/s, with gusts of up to 10 m/s. During the day, temperatures are expected to reach +30 °C in Limassol, +29 °C in Paphos and Larnaca, +28 °C in Ayia Napa, +26 °C in Nicosia and +22 °C in the Troodos mountains. Sea temperatures will be +29 °C.

The Civil Defence Service has moved to a state of heightened readiness and issued recommendations to residents. During the bad weather, people are advised to limit unnecessary travel, avoid crossing flooded roads either on foot or by car, and not to go down into basements or other underground areas: if there is a risk of flooding, move to higher ground.

Residents are also asked to check and, if necessary, clear gutters and storm drains around their homes or workplaces, secure objects that could be blown away by the wind, keep away from power lines and areas where landslides are possible, and follow official announcements from the authorities.

“Do not underestimate the force of water,” the Civil Defence Service reminds residents, stressing the importance of prevention and timely preparation.