Cyprus has been grappling with a significant spell of inclement weather over the past 24 hours, prompting a robust response from emergency services. The Cyprus Fire Service reported attending to a substantial number of incidents across the island, predominantly driven by heavy rainfall and volatile atmospheric conditions. Simultaneously, authorities implemented traffic advisories and restrictions, particularly in the mountainous regions, to mitigate risks associated with snow, ice, and dense fog.
The Meteorological Department had previously issued a yellow warning, signalling the potential for severe weather events, specifically heavy thunderstorms. This warning was in effect from Saturday morning through the afternoon, underscoring the prevailing instability. The region has been under the influence of a low-pressure system since the early hours of March 21st, a meteorological phenomenon anticipated to perpetuate unsettled conditions throughout the coming days, extending into Sunday and the subsequent Tuesday. This persistent atmospheric disturbance is the root cause of the widespread disruption.
The impact of the adverse weather has been felt across various districts, including Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. The Troodos mountain range, a popular destination even in less extreme conditions, became particularly challenging. Roads leading to the highest peaks, such as those connecting Platres to Troodos, Karvounas to Troodos, and Prodromos to Troodos, experienced significant disruptions. Snowfall, icy patches, and impenetrable fog necessitated the imposition of restrictions, requiring vehicles to be equipped with snow chains or to be four-wheel drive. Further compounding the situation, a landslide occurred on a road in the vicinity of the Agia Marina Xyliatou dam, leading towards Kannavia, resulting in the closure of one lane.
The Fire Service, placed on heightened alert, responded to a total of 25 calls. These included five instances of fire, nineteen requiring specialist assistance – ten of which were directly weather-related, involving fallen trees and the urgent need for water pumping operations. A single false alarm was also registered. The extensive rainfall has led to localized flooding, necessitating the pumping of water from inundated basements and premises. Fallen trees have also posed a considerable hazard, contributing to the workload of emergency personnel.
The Meteorology Department's forecast indicated intense rainfall rates, potentially ranging between 35 and 50 millimetres per hour, particularly in coastal and mountainous areas, with the effects extending inland. The possibility of hail, sleet, and even snow on the higher mountain summits was also highlighted. Winds have varied from moderate to strong, occasionally escalating to very strong gusts, creating rough seas that posed considerable risks to maritime activities. Temperatures have remained somewhat below seasonal averages, with inland and coastal areas experiencing highs around 17°C, while the higher mountain elevations registered approximately 6°C. Overnight, temperatures plummeted further, with frost anticipated in the higher altitudes.
Authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution when travelling, particularly in affected areas. Drivers are advised to maintain safe distances and to be aware of potentially hazardous road conditions, including the risk of localized flooding, especially in urban and low-lying regions. The potential for hail presents a tangible threat to vehicles, agricultural produce, and exposed property. As the unsettled weather pattern is projected to persist, vigilance and adherence to safety recommendations are paramount for the well-being of residents and visitors alike.