Newsroom
Cyprus could face a troubling situation on Thursday, with beaches across the island expected to be left without lifeguards because of a 24-hour nationwide strike by hourly-paid government staff.
The Interior Ministry issued the warning on Tuesday, saying the strikes on September 17 will affect lifeguard services in all districts.
That means people heading into the sea could find themselves swimming at beaches without trained lifeguards on duty, removing an important layer of protection at a time when Cyprus beaches remain busy.
The ministry urged the public to exercise particular caution when swimming or taking part in other sea activities at beaches where lifeguard coverage is unavailable.
The prospect of beaches being left without lifeguards is an unusual consequence of the strikes, particularly during the island's beach season.
Anyone planning to swim on Thursday is being urged to check whether lifeguards are present and to take extra care before entering the water.
