Cyprus is moving into an orange weather warning this evening, as system “Byron” continues to affect the island with severe and prolonged conditions. Speaking on the programme “Μεσημέρι και Κάτι”, a meteorology official warned that the coming hours will be particularly difficult for eastern, northern and mountainous regions.
The upgraded alert will be in place from 7pm tonight until 5am on Wednesday, reflecting heightened risks of flooding, thunderstorms and continuous heavy rainfall. “It is a higher alert level for flood phenomena, storms and sustained rain,” the official said, adding that while some improvement may appear by midday on Wednesday, further warnings are possible.
First snow expected on Troodos
Byron’s most intense phase will run through Wednesday and Thursday- but the headline news is that the season’s first snowfall is likely. “We expect snowfall or sleet on Troodos tonight based on the latest data,” the meteorologist confirmed, noting that snow or mixed precipitation is expected on the highest peaks.
Whether it will accumulate remains uncertain. “It may not settle- the water could melt the snow and turn it to ice. There is a chance of accumulation only on the very highest points of Troodos.”
From Friday onwards, conditions are set to ease, with temperatures rising by around two degrees. Inland highs of 17-18°C and coastal temperatures of 19-20°C are forecast heading into the weekend.
Dam levels rise sharply
The intense rainfall has already had a significant impact on dam levels, with a sharp rise recorded within 24 hours. “Yesterday at 8am we were at 32%. Today at 8am we are at 43%,” the official said. With at least two more days of rainfall anticipated, further inflow is expected. “A little patience, we will see more water entering the reservoirs.”
Authorities urge the public to remain cautious as the orange weather warning stays in force, particularly in flood-prone and mountainous areas.
Also read: Paphos dams water inflow remains negligible after rainfall
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