Lifeguards rescue two minors from inflatable boat in Peyia

On the morning of Saturday, August 29, 2026, a rescue operation occurred at Arapi beach in Peyia, Paphos district. Lifeguards Rafail Kyriakou and Anthony Torres successfully intervened to rescue two minors who were adrift in an inflatable boat. Strong, unusual winds for the season had swept the craft away from the designated swimming area into deeper waters, requiring immediate action from the lifeguards to bring the children safely back to the shore.

The incident took place during a period of severe weather across Cyprus, for which the Department of Meteorology had issued an orange alert. The adverse conditions caused widespread disruption, including fallen trees, landslides, lightning strikes, and power outages, further complicating safety on the coast. Authorities emphasize that the combination of high winds and the use of inflatable flotation devices by minors poses significant risks, as children can be dragged away from the shore in a matter of seconds. No injuries were reported, and the children were brought to safety by the lifeguards before the situation could escalate.