Early April rain boosts precipitation
Heavy rainfall on April 1 and early hours of April 2 has brought the average precipitation for Cyprus to 57% of the month’s normal, according to the Meteorological Department. Conditions of increased rainfall are expected to continue until April 14.
By 9 a.m. on Thursday, April 2, average rainfall in the free areas reached 16.9 mm, while the normal April average is 29.9 mm. Since October 1, the total precipitation has reached 485.3 mm, or 104% of the usual amount.
Regional rainfall patterns
The highest relative rainfall for the month was recorded in Kellaki (125%), Lythrodontas (118%), and Limassol (106%), while Platania saw the largest absolute rainfall at 47.4 mm.
According to updated medium-term forecasts by the Climate Watch Advisory Group of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), rainfall above seasonal norms is expected in the eastern Mediterranean, including Cyprus, until April 14, 2026. Weekly positive rainfall anomalies in the central and eastern Mediterranean are expected to range between +10 mm and +50 mm, locally exceeding +75 mm. Absolute weekly totals are projected at 25–75 mm, with higher amounts in exposed areas.
Impact on soil and hydrology
For Cyprus, these conditions may continue to increase soil moisture and surface runoff, providing temporary improvement to hydrological conditions. Localised heavy or prolonged rainfall may cause isolated issues in vulnerable areas. The Meteorological Department estimates a 70–90% chance of above-average rainfall in Cyprus over the coming days.
Last week, from March 24–30, Cyprus received 10–25 mm of rainfall, approximately 20 mm above expected levels for this period.
Atmospheric conditions supporting rain
The atmospheric situation remains favourable for instability, with an upper tropospheric trough extending into the central and eastern Mediterranean, bringing cooler air masses that enhance cloud development and upward motion. Surface low pressures and frontal disturbances in the eastern Mediterranean and around Greece–Turkey continue to support rainfall and local thunderstorms.
The combination of these dynamic factors and high sea temperatures leads to successive low-pressure systems, producing significant rainfall and raising flood risk in parts of the eastern Mediterranean. Cyprus, located on the eastern edge of this circulation, may experience intense rainfall episodes that are locally heavy or prolonged.
Continued caution and water management
While the rainfall improves soil moisture and temporarily relieves hydrological stress, overall water reserves remain low after an extended drought. The Meteorological Department emphasises the need for continued prudent water use.
Also read: Cyprus dams record best March inflows in decade, caution advised
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