Cyprus is bracing for a deteriorating weather spell from Wednesday as a low-pressure system centred over the Central Mediterranean moves into the region, bringing dust, storms and the possibility of hail, the Department of Meteorology said.
A weak low-pressure system is already affecting the island today, bringing periods of increased cloud cover and isolated showers or brief thunderstorms — initially across the west, north and mountainous areas, later spreading to parts of the southeast.
Winds will blow mainly from the south-west to north-west at moderate to strong speeds of 4 to 5 Beaufort, with gusts reaching up to 6 Beaufort along southern coasts. Seas will be generally rough, easing to slight to moderate by late afternoon.
Temperatures today will reach around 19°C inland and along the west, south-west and north coasts, around 20°C along the south-east and east coasts, and around 8°C at the highest mountain elevations.
Tuesday will turn partly cloudy with some temporary overcast spells, and isolated showers are possible after midday, mainly over the mountains and north.
From Wednesday, conditions will worsen significantly. The island will be mostly overcast, with local rain and isolated thunderstorms expected. Hail is possible during any thunderstorms. From Wednesday evening, some areas could see intense or prolonged weather events. Conditions are forecast to improve markedly from Thursday afternoon.
Dust will be suspended in the atmosphere from Wednesday onwards.
Temperatures will rise slightly on Tuesday before remaining broadly near seasonal averages through to Thursday. Snow depth at Chionistra stood at 8 centimetres at the time the bulletin was issued.