By Renee Strouthou
The Department of Labour has ordered a temporary halt to outdoor manual work today, July 22, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., as soaring temperatures push conditions into the danger zone.
Mandatory work stoppages apply when temperatures reach between 39°C and 46°C and affect workers whose jobs are primarily outdoors, including construction workers, delivery drivers, and others exposed to prolonged heat. The measure is intended to protect workers from heat-related illnesses.
With temperatures across Cyprus nearing their peak, authorities are urging employers and workers to take extra precautions. Extreme heat can reduce productivity by up to 15% and significantly increases the risk of heat exhaustion, heatstroke and acute kidney injury, which can require hospitalization.
The current heatwave is expected to continue through Thursday, July 23, with temperatures forecast to reach 43C again. A brief spell of cooler weather is expected from Friday through the weekend before temperatures begin climbing once more next week.
Health officials advise people to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day, and use sunscreen when outdoors.
