Dry days ahead as Cyprus faces rainless stretch

The eastern Mediterranean, including Cyprus, is in for an exceptionally dry period from March 10 to March 21, with rainfall expected to be much lower than usual, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

Weather experts from Germany, France, and Russia confirm that many areas will see little to no rain during this time. In Cyprus and other affected regions, weekly rainfall is expected to stay below 10mm, with some places getting none at all.

This comes after weeks of already dry weather, meaning the ground is drier than normal, river levels are low, and crops like winter cereals may struggle to grow. Water supplies could also take a hit if the dry spell continues.

The affected areas include Cyprus, Turkey, Syria, and eastern Ukraine. Weather experts say there is a 70%-90% chance the forecast will be accurate for the first week and a 60%-80% chance for the second week.

The lack of rain is due to high pressure over the eastern Mediterranean, which is blocking rainclouds from forming. At the same time, a low-pressure system over western Europe is keeping cooler air trapped there, preventing normal weather patterns.

Cyprus has already had below-average rainfall in recent weeks, and with reservoirs and soil moisture running low, authorities may need to prepare for possible water shortages if the dry conditions continue.