One dead following boat tragedy off Cape Greco amid severe storms

On the afternoon of Saturday, August 29, 2026, a severe summer storm caused a maritime tragedy off the coast of Cape Greco, Cyprus. The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) activated the national search and rescue plan 'Nearchos' at 14:30 after three boats encountered life-threatening conditions, with waves reaching up to 2.5 meters and wind gusts up to 9 Beaufort. Two of the vessels were destroyed after running aground on rocks.

The victim was identified as 76-year-old businessman and former rally driver Dimis Mavropoulos, who was found unconscious by rescue divers and later pronounced dead at Famagusta General Hospital. A total of six people were involved in the incident; five survivors were recovered by helicopters and police patrols, with two requiring hospitalization. The Meteorology Department noted that a sea warning had been issued in advance, though officials clarified that there is no formal concept of a 'prohibition of departure' for vessels.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, while environmental teams were expected to inspect the area for potential oil pollution. Meanwhile, the government has begun a nationwide assessment of damage caused by the storm, with the Ministry of the Interior planning to provide compensation for affected citizens starting in the following week.