Cyprus is set for a dramatic change in weather this weekend, with forecasters warning of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and a sharp fall in temperatures, while an orange weather warning is likely to be issued because of the severity of the expected conditions.
Speaking to CNA on Friday, Senior Meteorological Officer Michalis Mouskos said unstable weather moving across the island is expected to bring widespread rain and thunderstorms throughout Saturday.
Orange warning possible
According to Mouskos, showers and thunderstorms are expected in several parts of Cyprus from Saturday morning until early evening.
A weather warning was due to be issued later on Friday, with a strong possibility that it would be upgraded to orange level because of the intensity of the forecast weather systems.
Temperatures to drop sharply
Temperatures are expected to fall significantly compared with current levels.
After reaching around:
- 39C inland on Friday
- 34C along coastal areas
temperatures on Saturday are forecast to fall to around 30C.
The cooling trend is expected to be brief, however.
From Sunday onward, temperatures will gradually rise again, returning to seasonal norms by Tuesday at approximately:
- 36C inland
- 32C along the coast
Continued instability into next week
Mouskos said some atmospheric instability will persist over the mountains in the coming days.
Isolated showers remain possible on:
- Sunday
- Monday
- Tuesday
Forecasters also warned that hail and brief showers may occur in some areas on Friday.
Public advised to take precautions
Authorities are advising motorists to exercise caution on roads during Saturday's storms.
Residents are also being urged to avoid remaining in open outdoor areas while thunderstorms are in progress due to the risk posed by lightning and other severe weather conditions.
Source: CNA
