Crane truck breakdown and storm-related incidents impact Cyprus roads

On October 29, 2026, heavy rainfall and strong winds caused widespread traffic disruptions across Cyprus. A major incident occurred on the Larnaca–Nicosia motorway, where a crane truck broke down one kilometer from the Rizoelia roundabout, blocking part of the left lane for over seven hours. Traffic flow was severely impacted, and authorities had to source specialized heavy-duty equipment to move the vehicle after its wheels locked due to mechanical failure. The incident was further complicated by the fact that the vehicle was operating illegally on the motorway, leading police to initiate legal proceedings against the driver.

Simultaneously, severe weather conditions triggered by a yellow weather warning, which remained in effect until 5 p.m., led to multiple incidents across the island. In Paphos, strong winds tore a metal pergola from an apartment building on Griva Digeni Avenue, crushing one parked car and damaging another. No injuries were reported in this incident. Throughout the day, police warned motorists of slippery road surfaces, accumulation of water, and poor visibility. By late Thursday afternoon, the crane on the motorway was successfully removed, and normal traffic flow was restored, though investigations into the vehicle's illegal operation continue.