Cypriot authorities address criticism over severe weather alerts and maritime safety procedures

Cypriot authorities, including the Meteorological Service and Civil Defense, have rejected claims regarding delays in issuing the CY Alert system during recent extreme weather events. On August 31, 2026, officials explained that the alert was triggered only once the weather situation was identified as generalized and hazardous, noting that forecasts of inclement weather had been provided days in advance.

Andreas Chrysanthou of the Meteorological Service clarified that yellow and orange warnings were issued according to established protocols, with the latter reserved for unusually severe phenomena. Regarding the lack of maritime sailing bans, officials clarified that such measures are not within the mandate of the Civil Defense. The Meteorological Service stated that, unlike the procedure in Greece, there is no formal "sailing ban" mechanism in Cyprus. Instead, they issue a maritime bulletin covering up to eight kilometers from the coast, which is updated three times daily.

Civil Defense representative Chara Lazarou emphasized that their agency lacks the legal authority to issue sailing prohibitions. The authorities maintain that coordination between the Meteorological Service and the Civil Defense remains constant to ensure public safety during adverse weather conditions.