Cyprus is currently navigating a period of significant atmospheric instability, with the Meteorological Department issuing a yellow weather warning for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and hail. The alert, which commenced late Monday evening and is slated to persist until Tuesday morning, signals the potential for considerable disruption across the island, particularly in western and southern coastal regions, inland territories, and the elevated Troodos mountain range. Residents have been urged to exercise extreme caution as a weak low-pressure system unleashes its fury.
The prevailing weather pattern is characterised by isolated but potent thunderstorms, capable of delivering precipitation rates exceeding 35 millimetres per hour. Accompanying these downpours are hailstones, which could inflict damage and exacerbate flooding risks. The Civil Defence has proactively disseminated advisories to mitigate potential hazards, recommending measures such as clearing drainage systems, securing external fixtures, and preparing sandbags. Furthermore, individuals residing in flood-prone areas are advised to relocate valuables from basements and to limit travel during periods of intense rainfall. The authorities also cautioned against venturing into subterranean locations and stressed the importance of relocating to higher ground should flooding commence.
The impact of this adverse weather extends beyond mere inconvenience. The potential for flash flooding poses a tangible threat, especially in low-lying vicinities where water accumulation can rapidly escalate. Consequently, residents are being implored to exercise prudence and take all necessary precautions to safeguard their property and, most importantly, their personal safety. The Civil Defence's guidance explicitly warns against traversing flooded roadways, approaching downed power lines, or navigating unstable terrain. Outdoor activities at sea, as well as those in close proximity to trees and balconies, are strongly discouraged. The possibility of strong gusts of wind, and even isolated tornado activity, accompanying the more severe storm cells has also been flagged, underscoring the severity of the situation.
While the immediate focus is on managing the current deluge, the meteorological forecast indicates a prolonged spell of unsettled weather. Rain is anticipated to persist through Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, with the possibility of isolated thunderstorms re-emerging in the afternoons of these subsequent days. Intriguingly, despite the inclement weather, temperatures are expected to remain marginally above seasonal averages until the end of the week. Daytime temperatures are projected to hover around 18°C inland, reaching 20°C along the coast, while higher elevations, such as the Troodos mountains, will experience cooler conditions, with daytime highs around 9°C. Overnight, temperatures will dip, with inland areas registering approximately 9°C and coastal regions around 12°C. The mountain peaks could see temperatures as low as 4°C, with the potential for frost in sheltered leeward pockets. Winds are generally expected to be from the northeast to southeast, with speeds ranging from gentle to moderate, registering between 3 and 4 Beaufort. The seas are forecast to be slight to slightly rough. The presence of dust suspended in the atmosphere, a consequence of the prevailing meteorological conditions, adds another layer to the complex atmospheric scenario.