Severe storms cause widespread power outages across Cyprus

On August 29, 2026, severe weather conditions and intense lightning activity caused significant damage to the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) power grid. The storms resulted in 40 medium-voltage faults and numerous low-voltage failures affecting nearly every district on the island, with the notable exception of some areas. Hardest-hit locations included Avgorou in the Famagusta district, as well as multiple communities across Nicosia, Larnaca, Paphos, and Limassol. The damage also triggered isolated fires, including an incident in Kokkinotrimithia.

EAC spokesperson Christina Papadopoulou stated that all available technical crews were recalled and mobilized to address the faults. However, repair efforts were frequently delayed as safety regulations strictly prohibit personnel from working on power equipment during ongoing lightning activity. The utility warned that restorations would take several hours to complete and requested that the public report only emergency incidents to reduce the strain on telephone centers, which were reinforced with extra staff.

By August 30, recovery efforts remained ongoing, particularly in Nicosia where some outages persisted. Damage included the collapse of an electricity pole in Lakatamia, requiring coordinated intervention between the EAC and local municipal authorities to stabilize infrastructure and restore power to affected residents.