Dust levels across Cyprus hit red alert levels on Saturday in Nicosia, Limassol and Larnaca, and orange levels in Paphos and Ayia Marina Xyliatou, as a severe dust episode continued to affect the island.
Meteorological officer Andreas Chrysanthou told CNA that the phenomenon is expected to ease from Saturday afternoon, helped by strengthening winds and rainfall forecast for several parts of the island.
At the same time, he said elevated dust concentrations remain over the region, while another dust plume from Libya is located south of Cyprus but may not significantly affect the island.
“This means that as the afternoon turns to evening, we should progressively see a noticeable improvement in atmospheric conditions,” Chrysanthou said, adding that measurements from the Ayia Marina Xyliatou reference station already show a downward trend.
Dust levels at red alert in major cities
According to the Air Quality Cyprus website, current concentrations are:
- Nicosia: 287.2 µg/m³ PM10, 105 µg/m³ PM2.5
- Limassol: 209 µg/m³ PM10, 67 µg/m³ PM2.5
- Larnaca: 229 µg/m³ PM10, 78 µg/m³ PM2.5
- Paphos: 119 µg/m³ PM10, 31 µg/m³ PM2.5
- Ayia Marina Xyliatou: 130 µg/m³ PM10, 39 µg/m³ PM2.5
Chrysanthou said winds are expected to strengthen, particularly from midday onwards, and the sea breeze will peak, helping push the dust eastwards. “We already see lower levels in the western part of the island, such as Paphos,” he noted.
Rain to help clear atmosphere
Dust levels are expected to fall later in the day as rain develops in several areas.
“Today’s forecast includes local showers and isolated thunderstorms. Rain is expected in many parts of the island, starting from the west but mainly in the mountains and the eastern half. This will help disperse the dust,” Chrysanthou said.
Temperatures and outlook for coming days
He said temperatures on Saturday would reach around 20°C inland and on the coasts, and 8°C in the higher mountains, with no significant change expected in the days ahead.
Rain is also expected on Sunday in mountainous areas and parts of the interior. Similar conditions with showers are forecast for Monday and Tuesday.
A change in weather is expected from Thursday onwards, with no rain forecast for Good Friday, Saturday or Easter Sunday.
Source: CNA