Larnaca EOA creates WhatsApp alerts for extreme weather

The Larnaca District Local Government Organisation (DLGO) announced the creation of a dedicated WhatsApp communication group aimed at providing immediate alerts and enhancing coordination among local authorities during extreme weather events and natural disasters.

The initiative complements the DLGO’s network of 25 meteorological stations developed in collaboration with KITASWEATHER across the city and district of Larnaca. The stations provide specialised weather data and early warning services.

Through the WhatsApp group, all municipalities and communities in Larnaca, as well as designated local officers, will receive instant notifications about severe or extreme weather, including clear geographic details of potentially affected areas.

The system will also be used to share alerts regarding natural disasters, such as wildfires threatening communities in the mountainous regions of the district, enabling rapid mobilisation of relevant services and timely preventive measures.

Officials said using a widely adopted communication platform like WhatsApp increases the speed of information dissemination and significantly improves coordination between stakeholders. Timely alerts are crucial for effective risk management and the protection of life and property.

Residents already have access to the DLGO Larnaca meteorological platform, which provides real-time data on rainfall, humidity, temperature and wind intensity. The platform also delivers early warnings for severe or extreme weather, helping citizens prepare and safeguard themselves.

The platform can be accessed at: https://eoal.org.cy/enimerosi/meteorologiki-enimerosi/