High concentrations of dust were observed in the atmosphere across Cyprus on Monday, according to measurements from ground stations operated by the Air Quality Monitoring Network. The episode coincides with unstable weather conditions caused by a low pressure system affecting the region, bringing increased cloud cover, localised rainfall and strong winds.
Elevated dust concentrations recorded nationwide
According to measurements from ground stations of the Air Quality Monitoring Network operated by the Department of Labour Inspection, increased levels of dust were recorded in several areas on Monday morning.
At 07:00, the latest hourly dust concentrations were measured as follows: Nicosia 38.5 μg/m³, Limassol 102.0 μg/m³, Larnaca 85.5 μg/m³, Paralimni 76.2 μg/m³, Paphos 110.3 μg/m³, Zygi 82.1 μg/m³ and Ayia Marina Xyliatou 124.3 μg/m³.
Health guidance for the public and vulnerable groups
The public is urged to avoid staying in open spaces until the dust episode subsides. Particular caution is advised for vulnerable groups, including children, older people and individuals with underlying health conditions.
It is noted that dust refers to respirable particulate matter with a diameter smaller than 10 micrometres (PM10). Due to their small size, these particles may have negative effects on human health.
According to the relevant legislation, the daily average limit value for PM10 concentrations is set at 50 μg/m³.
Employer obligations and workplace measures
Employers are required, based on an existing order, to take appropriate organisational and or technical measures after assessing the risks faced by employees working in open spaces.
The use of appropriate personal protective equipment is also recommended for workers exposed to outdoor conditions during periods of increased dust levels.
Low pressure system affecting weather conditions
A low pressure system centred over the Aegean Sea is moving north-east and is temporarily affecting the region. Dust is expected to remain in the atmosphere, at times at increased levels, until the evening.
Initially, low cloud, thin mist or fog is expected, mainly inland. Conditions will gradually become mostly cloudy, with localised rainfall and isolated thunderstorms, particularly after midday. Hail may occur during thunderstorms.
Winds will blow mainly south-westerly to westerly, light to moderate at 3 to 4 Beaufort, strengthening in the afternoon to moderate to strong at 4 to 5 Beaufort and temporarily very strong along the coasts, reaching 6 Beaufort. The sea will be slight to moderate, becoming rough in western and northern coastal areas.
Temperatures are expected to reach around 20 degrees Celsius inland and along the coasts, and around 9 degrees in higher mountainous areas.
Forecast for the coming days
Tonight, the weather will remain locally mostly cloudy, with localised rainfall and isolated thunderstorms expected, mainly in the western half of the island. Winds will be south-westerly to north-westerly, light to moderate at 3 to 4 Beaufort, and initially strong to very strong along the coasts at 5 to 6 Beaufort. Sea conditions will range from rough to very rough, particularly in western areas. Temperatures will drop to around 10 degrees inland and along the coasts, and around 5 degrees in higher mountainous areas.
On Tuesday, increased cloud cover is expected to give isolated showers in western areas during the morning, with conditions gradually becoming mainly clear by midday. Wednesday will be mainly clear, while on Thursday locally increased cloud cover is expected.
Temperatures are forecast to fall on Tuesday, with no significant change expected through Thursday, remaining slightly above seasonal average values.
Source: Cyprus News Agency