Strong winds and rough seas hit Kato Paphos early today. This caused flooding in many businesses. A main road by the sea is now closed. This is the second time this has happened recently. People are worried about the sea defences.
The strong waves pushed seawater inland. Shops on the waterfront were flooded. The coastal road became difficult to use. It was covered in sand and rubbish. This important road connects other streets. Eyewitnesses said it looked like a dirt track. Business owners and city workers are cleaning up the water and debris.
The flooding has highlighted a problem. A low wall near the pier was removed years ago. This wall helped protect the area from the sea. Its removal has made the coast weaker against high tides and big waves.
Shopkeepers are frustrated and worried. They are still dealing with the last flood. The flooded streets and sand also make visitors not want to come. This hurts the local economy.
City officials know the situation is serious. Their teams are cleaning up. However, this clean-up does not fix the main problem. People are discussing past decisions. They are asking if coastal defences were important enough. They also question planning for climate change. City planners must now find long-term solutions.