Cyprus is currently confronting a significant deterioration in its weather conditions, prompting the Meteorological Department to issue a yellow weather warning. This alert, effective from Sunday evening through Monday evening, highlights the imminent threat of heavy rainfall and isolated thunderstorms across the island. The Cyprus Police have also disseminated advisories, particularly emphasizing hazardous driving conditions on the Nicosia-Limassol highway, where substantial water accumulation is already being observed.
The current deluge, notably pronounced near Kornos and Kofinou along the vital Nicosia-Limassol route, is creating perilous driving circumstances for motorists. Drivers are contending with severely reduced visibility and an elevated risk of hydroplaning, necessitating extreme caution and a considerable reduction in speed. This adverse weather is attributed to a low-pressure system migrating southeastward from the island's northwestern quadrant, bringing with it a potent influx of moisture.
The forecast indicates a further intensification of the adverse conditions overnight Sunday, with widespread rain and thunderstorms anticipated to persist throughout Monday. Rainfall intensity could potentially reach between 35 and 55 millimetres per hour, with a cumulative 24-hour accumulation in coastal and mountainous areas possibly exceeding 55 millimetres. Furthermore, storm cells harbour the potential to produce hail, adding another layer of hazard to the prevailing meteorological situation.
Beyond the immediate threat of heavy rain, the higher elevations of the Troodos mountain range are expected to witness snowfall, a development that could add a wintry dimension to the island's interior. Coastal regions are also not exempt from the weather's disruptive influence, with strong southwesterly winds expected to generate rough to very rough seas. These winds, initially registering at 6 to 7 Beaufort along exposed coastlines, are projected to maintain a significant force on Monday.
The arrival of a cold air mass on Monday is expected to contribute to a noticeable drop in temperatures, with inland areas forecast to experience highs of around 14°C. This cooling trend will be more pronounced on Tuesday, when temperatures are predicted to fall below seasonal averages. Sheltered mountainous areas may potentially experience frost.
Authorities are urging the public, particularly drivers, to exercise the utmost vigilance. Recommendations include significantly decreasing speed and maintaining increased safety distances between vehicles. The combined impact of heavy rainfall, reduced visibility, and hydroplaning presents a considerable challenge for road users, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety guidelines.