A low-pressure system centred near Rhodes is affecting Cyprus, bringing unsettled weather conditions across the island.
Thursday is expected to be mostly cloudy, with local showers and isolated thunderstorms. Hail is also possible in areas affected by thunderstorms.
Southwesterly winds will be moderate to strong, reaching 4 to 5 Beaufort, and later becoming locally very strong at 5 to 6 Beaufort. Within thunderstorms, wind gusts may temporarily strengthen to 7 to 8 Beaufort.
Temperatures are forecast to reach around 23C inland and along the coast, and 12C in the higher mountains.
Yellow weather warning in force
The Department of Meteorology has issued a yellow warning valid from 9am until 5pm.
Isolated strong thunderstorms are expected to affect initially the western half of the island before gradually spreading to other areas.
Rainfall intensity could reach between 35 and 55 millimetres per hour, while hail is also possible. Strong gusts of up to 7 to 8 Beaufort may accompany thunderstorms.
Conditions improving overnight
Tonight, the weather is expected to become partly cloudy, although isolated showers cannot be ruled out, particularly along coastal areas.
Winds will gradually ease from moderate to strong southwesterly and westerly winds to lighter southwesterly and northwesterly winds of 3 to 4 Beaufort.
Temperatures will fall to around 12C inland and on the coast, and 4C in the higher mountain areas.
Outlook for the coming days
On Friday and Saturday, periods of increased cloud cover may produce isolated showers.
On Sunday, locally increased cloud is expected to bring isolated showers and possibly thunderstorms, mainly during the afternoon.
Temperatures are forecast to rise gradually over the coming days, returning to levels close to seasonal averages.
