Cyprus is poised to experience the nadir of its winter chill tonight, with meteorological forecasts indicating a significant temperature plunge across the island. The Department of Meteorology has issued warnings of wintry conditions, including the likelihood of snow and frost at higher altitudes, as a weak low-pressure system sweeps through the region. This cold snap, however, is expected to be a transient phenomenon, with a substantial warming trend anticipated from midweek onwards.
The current atmospheric disturbance is responsible for ushering in the most severe cold spell of the winter season to date. Meteorological officials are predicting that inland areas will register temperatures as low as approximately 7°C. For those venturing into the mountain ranges, particularly the Troodos peaks, the mercury is expected to descend to around 2°C. Even the typically milder coastal regions will not be entirely spared, with forecasters anticipating temperatures in the vicinity of 10°C. The highest elevations of the Troodos mountains are particularly susceptible to wintry precipitation, with forecasts suggesting the possibility of snow or sleet, accompanied by local frost.
Accompanying the sharp drop in temperature will be a noticeable shift in wind patterns. Winds are anticipated to blow from the northwest to the northeast. Along the coast, these winds are expected to be of moderate to strong intensity, registering between force 4 and 5 on the Beaufort scale, which will contribute to a slightly rough to rough sea state. Inland, the winds are predicted to be somewhat less vigorous, ranging from force 3 to 4. The skies tonight are expected to be partly cloudy, with the potential for isolated rain showers in other parts of the island.
This period of intense cold is, however, a prelude to a considerably more clement weather scenario. From Wednesday onwards, a shift in atmospheric pressure is expected to bring about a marked improvement in conditions. The arrival of a high-pressure system will usher in predominantly clear skies and a swift escalation in temperatures. Inland, temperatures are projected to climb to approximately 18°C, while coastal areas are likely to see readings around 19°C. Even the higher mountain regions will experience a significant thaw, reaching temperatures of up to 6°C. The northeasterly winds are forecast to persist, maintaining a moderate to strong intensity at force 4-5, and the seas will continue to be slightly rough to rough on Wednesday.
Looking ahead, Thursday is expected to retain the largely clear and mild conditions, with temperatures holding steady and slightly exceeding the seasonal average. However, a return to more unsettled weather is on the horizon, with partly cloudy skies predicted to reappear by Friday and Saturday, indicating a potential for further variations in temperature and precipitation as the week progresses. The stark contrast between the imminent frigid night and the subsequent warm spell highlights the dynamic nature of Cyprus's winter climate. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions against the current cold, while simultaneously anticipating a return to significantly milder conditions in the coming days.