The Cyprus Meteorological Department has issued a yellow weather warning as the island prepares for Storm Adel. This powerful storm is expected to bring a period of very bad weather, including severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, and a sudden, unseasonal drop in temperatures. The warning is active from Saturday night until Sunday afternoon. Officials are urging everyone to be very careful because there is a significant risk of flooding and some isolated hailstorms. The coming severe conditions have also affected plans for outdoor events, and authorities are advising people to avoid any travel that is not absolutely necessary.
Meteorologists explain that this disruptive weather comes from a deep low-pressure system, which has been named Storm Adel. This same storm previously caused serious damage in southern Italy and western Greece. Before moving towards the eastern Mediterranean, it even triggered a red-level alert in parts of Greece, leading to widespread flooding and school closures. Its path suggests that Cyprus will face a similar, though possibly less severe, impact. The combination of the storm and a mass of cold air is creating these unstable conditions.
According to the forecast, the western and northern parts of the island will be the first to experience the storm from late Friday into Saturday morning. The situation will then intensify during the official warning period. Rainfall is predicted to be very heavy, reaching between 35 and 55 millimetres per hour. This kind of intensity can quickly overwhelm drains and create a high risk of flash floods in vulnerable areas. Isolated but powerful hailstorms are also very likely, especially along the northern and eastern coasts. Meanwhile, the highest areas of the Troodos mountains might even see some sleet.
Andreas Chrysanthous, an officer with the Meteorology Department, gave clear advice to the public. He stated that people should remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary journeys because of the high possibility of flooding and hail. He added that while a yellow warning is not a reason to panic, sudden weather changes could leave people exposed to dangers. These rapid changes might include roads that flood quickly and very poor visibility during intense rain.
The storm's effects will go beyond just rain. Winds are expected to become stronger and change direction, reaching force 4 to 5 across the island and gusting to a strong 6 or 7 in exposed areas. A noticeable drop in temperatures will also occur. Daytime highs will only be around 18 degrees Celsius, and nights will be much colder, with lows of 11 degrees inland and a chilly 8 degrees in the mountains.
The advisory also has specific advice for travellers and people visiting seasonal attractions like Christmas villages. It tells them to stay alert to the changing weather and to avoid isolated or foggy areas. Although the weather will eventually improve, the unstable conditions are forecast to continue into Monday, with showers across the country. Authorities expect a return to clearer, calmer skies only by Tuesday, ending a volatile and potentially dangerous 48-hour period for the island.