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The Meteorology Department has sounded a double warning for exceptionally high temperatures, urging residents to take precautions as a heatwave grips the region. The advisory comes as the mercury soars, with experts predicting potentially dangerous conditions in the coming days.
An orange alert has been activated and is set to be in effect from 12:00 noon on Thursday (17/08) until 6:00 pm on the same day. During this period, the mountains are expected to experience a peak temperature of 34 degrees Celsius, posing a significant risk to those venturing outdoors.
Simultaneously, a yellow alert has also been issued for the same timeframe. Inland areas are projected to witness the mercury climb to a scorching 41 degrees Celsius, emphasizing the severity of the heatwave's impact.
In accordance with the weather forecast, today's conditions will be dominated by clear skies and abundant sunshine. Although a light haze is anticipated in the atmosphere, it is predicted to gradually dissipate as the day progresses. Wind patterns are anticipated to start as gentle and variable, around 3 on the Beaufort scale, before shifting to predominantly southwest to northwest at a later time. These breezes will be generally weak to moderate, reaching speeds of 3 to 4 on the Beaufort scale, while some coastal regions might experience intermittent stronger gusts, registering 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale. Sea conditions are projected to range from slightly to moderately rough.
Thermometer readings will soar to around 41 degrees Celsius inland, approximately 32 degrees Celsius along the western coastlines, and hover around 34 degrees Celsius on other coastal stretches and elevated mountain zones.
As the day transitions into evening, the skies will remain predominantly clear, with localized instances of increased low cloud cover intermittently observed. Early morning hours could see the development of sporadic thin fog, primarily along the eastern coastlines. Wind direction will initially veer towards the northwest, maintaining a light and locally moderate flow, around 3 to 4 on the Beaufort scale. However, later on, the winds are anticipated to become light and variable, hovering around 3 on the Beaufort scale. Sea conditions are predicted to gradually shift from mildly disturbed to slightly choppy. Thermometer readings will drop to around 23 degrees Celsius inland, along the western and northern coasts, as well as in the higher mountain areas. Southern and eastern coastal regions can expect temperatures of approximately 24 degrees Celsius.
Heading into the upcoming days, the weather pattern is expected to remain consistent. Friday will see continued sunshine with temperatures holding steady, while Saturday and Sunday will witness a gradual decline in temperatures. Residents are advised to remain cautious and follow recommended guidelines to ensure their safety during this heatwave.
Local authorities urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and keep a close watch on vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and young children. These proactive measures will go a long way in minimizing the risks associated with the ongoing heatwave.
[Information sourced from Cyprus Met Service]
