Cyprus rainfall recorded over the past six hours has brought significant precipitation to many areas of the island, creating favourable conditions for snowfall and boosting hopes for increased water reserves.
Speaking on the programme Protoselido, Meteorological Service representative Andreas Chrysanthou said notable rainfall amounts were measured at several meteorological stations across Cyprus during the last six-hour period.
He clarified that the weather warning currently in force mainly concerns rainfall rather than intense thunderstorms. The weather system affecting the island is producing prolonged rain, with isolated thunderstorms, but without the sudden and extreme intensifications typically associated with destructive weather phenomena.
Rainfall totals may exceed 55mm locally
On a 24-hour basis, rainfall totals could locally exceed 55 millimetres, while several stations have already recorded between 35 and 40 millimetres. The warning remains valid until 10pm, with a gradual weakening of phenomena expected from the afternoon onwards.
Particularly positive is the fact that significant rainfall has been recorded in mountainous areas close to reservoirs, a crucial factor for water inflows into dams.
Caution urged despite beneficial conditions
Despite the overall beneficial nature of the rainfall, Mr Chrysanthou stressed the need for increased public caution. Strong winds, reduced visibility, water accumulation on roads and locally occurring frost during morning hours are making travel more hazardous, especially on a day marked by increased movement due to the end of the year.
Positive outlook for the hydrological year
From a hydrological perspective, December is closing on a clearly positive note. According to Mr Chrysanthou, the hydrological year from 1 October has now exceeded 70% in terms of rainfall, compared to 62% recorded at the same point at the end of the previous hydrological year.
December is approaching its normal rainfall levels, generating cautious optimism for January and February, provided that the rainfall translates into substantial inflows to reservoirs.
New Year’s Day weather outlook
On New Year’s Day, weather conditions are expected to be noticeably milder compared to today. Cloudy skies will prevail, with isolated showers and possible thunderstorms mainly affecting the western half of the island, particularly Paphos district and northern areas.
Snowfall is expected again on the highest mountain peaks. Winds, although weaker than today, will remain enhanced, mainly north-westerly, reaching four to five Beaufort and locally up to six Beaufort along coastal areas.
From Friday onwards, generally fair weather is forecast, accompanied by a noticeable drop in temperatures. Low nighttime temperatures may again be recorded on New Year’s night and Friday night, especially in lowland areas.
Also read: Yellow weather warning in force as storms hit island
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