Yellow weather warning for severe storms issued in Cyprus

A yellow weather alert was issued by the Cyprus Department of Meteorology, effective from 21:00 on Thursday, September 17, until 17:00 on Friday, September 18, 2026. The alert warned of isolated severe thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds reaching gusts of 8 to 9 Beaufort, with rainfall intensity expected between 35 and 55 millimeters per hour. The disturbance initially affected the western half of the island, including Akamas, Polis Chrysochous, and Larnaca, before shifting toward the mountainous areas and the eastern half of the island during the day.

Authorities sent a notification via the CY-Alert system on Thursday evening, which opted not to include a sound alert to avoid causing unnecessary alarm. Civil Defense officials issued detailed guidance for the public, including clearing drains and gutters, securing loose items, and avoiding underground areas. The severe weather caused operational disruptions, including the diversion of a flight from Larnaca International Airport to Paphos. By late Friday, officials expected the weather conditions to improve significantly, with clear skies anticipated by evening.