By Marina Chatzichristodoulou
Cyprus is facing an alarming drought that is devastating its forests, including endemic species listed in the country’s “Red Book” of protected plants. On Tuesday, Glafkos Kyriakou, the press spokesperson for the Department of Forests, described the scale of the crisis and outlined the steps being taken to mitigate damage.
“The combination of little rainfall, erratic weather, and prolonged dry conditions is placing extreme stress on trees and causing severe damage to the forest ecosystem,” Mr. Kyriakou said.
“There are extensive droughts affecting trees both individually and in groups,” he added.
The Department of Forests has begun mapping the most affected areas. Officials are documenting the drought and monitoring the impact on key species, including wild pines (Pinus brutia), endemic cedars, and local oaks in the Latsia region, as well as shrubs in Androuklia. Many of these species are unique to Cyprus, and several are protected under the Red Book. Herbaceous plants and low-growing vegetation have also been heavily affected.
Waiting for rain
Mr. Kyriakou said there is some hope for rainfall in the coming weeks. In the meantime, authorities are irrigating lowland areas, including Athalassa National Park and the Pedagogical Academy, as well as stretches along major highways. Recycled water is being used to irrigate densely planted areas, where thinning is also being carried out to reduce competition for water and improve the resilience of remaining trees.
Measures to protect forests
Officials are removing dead trees to prevent the spread of pests and disease. Reforestation programs have been adjusted to move away from monoculture, introducing more resilient species such as carob trees, tamarisks, wild olives, and other native plants adapted to Cyprus’ climate and soil. Municipalities, communities, and other organizations involved in planting are being advised to adopt similar practices.
The beginning of a disaster
“We are at the beginning of a disaster,” Mr. Kyriakou said. “Mapping of affected areas is ongoing. Even if it rains, the drought’s effects will persist, and it will take months to determine the full extent of the damage.”
He noted that a similar drought occurred between 2005 and 2008. Lowland and semi-mountainous regions are most affected, while southern and eastern areas experience greater sun and wind exposure. Drought also impacts trees on shallow, rocky soils with low water retention.
According to Savvas Ezekiel, director of the Department of Forests, as many as 40 percent of the trees in the Cedar Valley have already dried out.
