Severe weather hits Cyprus with orange alert in effect

A severe weather front is affecting Cyprus, leading the Meteorological Department to issue an orange warning effective from 10:00 to 19:00 on Saturday, August 29, 2026. Forecasts indicate heavy rainfall reaching 55 to 70 millimeters per hour, accompanied by hail and strong gusty winds. The system has brought widespread disruption across the island, including waterspouts reported off the coasts of Larnaca and Ayia Napa, which prompted beachgoers to evacuate.

The adverse conditions have resulted in significant infrastructure and emergency incidents. In Avgorou, a lightning strike ignited a fire at a residential storage facility, while the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) reported localized power outages across regions including Limassol, Nicosia, Paphos, and Famagusta. The Nicosia Fire Department has responded to approximately ten incidents involving fallen trees, sparks from electrical cables, and small fires caused by lightning.

Authorities, including the Civil Defense and Police, have issued urgent safety recommendations, urging the public to minimize unnecessary travel, secure outdoor property, and avoid flood-prone areas. Drivers are advised to reduce speed, maintain safe following distances, and exercise extreme caution due to poor visibility and sudden changes in road surface conditions.