Newsroom
Cyprus is set to experience a period of unstable and potentially severe weather, with the Meteorology Department issuing a yellow warning for heavy thunderstorms on Saturday. The alert covers the critical hours between 10:00 and 17:00, when isolated but intense thunderstorms are expected to impact parts of the island.
The main concern is the intensity of rainfall, with rates forecast between 35 and 50 millimeters per hour. Such heavy downpours can lead to localized flooding, particularly in urban and low-lying areas. In addition, hail is likely during thunderstorms, posing risks to vehicles, agriculture, and exposed property. Residents are urged to take precautions, especially during the warning period.
Low-pressure system bringing instability
The warning comes as a low-pressure system continues to affect the region for the period from 06:00 on March 21 to 06:00 on March 22, with unsettled conditions expected to persist over the coming days.
Throughout Saturday, intervals of local rain and isolated thunderstorms are expected, initially affecting coastal and mountainous areas before gradually extending inland. Storms may again be accompanied by hail, while sleet or snow will fall on the highest peaks of the Troodos mountains.
Winds will blow mainly from the southwest to west, ranging from moderate to strong (4–5 Beaufort) and occasionally reaching very strong levels (5–6 Beaufort). Meanwhile, the sea will be rough and at times very rough, creating hazardous conditions, particularly for marine activities.
Temperatures will rise to around 17°C inland and along the coasts, and about 6°C in the higher mountains.
Cold night ahead with frost in mountain areas
Conditions will remain unsettled into Saturday night, with periods of rain or thunderstorms, mainly in coastal and mountainous areas. Snow or sleet will continue over the highest peaks of Troodos.
Winds will ease slightly to weak to moderate (3–4 Beaufort), while the sea remains up to rough. Overnight temperatures are expected to drop to around 8°C inland, 12°C along the coasts, and about 2°C in the higher mountains, where frost is likely in some areas.
Unsettled weather continues into next week
From Sunday through Tuesday, the unsettled pattern is expected to continue, with intervals of rain and isolated thunderstorms. Hail remains possible during storms, while snow or sleet will continue to affect the highest elevations of Troodos.
Temperatures will remain slightly below seasonal averages, with no significant changes expected.
At the time of reporting, the snow depth at Chionistra stands at 21 cm, reflecting ongoing wintry conditions in the mountains.
