Orange weather warning issued for severe storms in Cyprus
The Cyprus Department of Meteorology has issued an orange weather warning for severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and potential hail, effective from 3:00 PM on Wednesday, October 14, until 5:00 AM on Thursday, October 15. The alert, updated from an original 7:00 PM start time, warns of rainfall intensity reaching between 55 and 70 millimetres per hour, accompanied by strong wind gusts. This weather system is part of a low-pressure front originating over the Ionian Sea and moving southeast toward the island.
In response to the deteriorating conditions, the Cyprus Civil Defence has issued urgent safety guidelines for the public. Citizens are advised to secure loose outdoor objects, check gutters and drains to prevent flooding, and avoid crossing flooded roads either on foot or by vehicle. Authorities also warn against entering underground spaces that may be prone to inundation. Emergency services remain on high alert to handle potential damage as the island faces this period of atmospheric instability, with conditions expected to ease by Thursday morning.