A Cyprus weather warning remains in effect as heavy rain, isolated thunderstorms and even snowfall are forecast to impact parts of the island until 6am on Saturday.
The Yellow Warning was issued by the Department of Meteorology and has been in force since 6am Friday.
Heavy rain and thunderstorms expected
A combination of rain and isolated thunderstorms will affect the island at intervals. During thunderstorms, hail is possible and winds are expected to strengthen significantly.
Total rainfall, mainly across the western half of the island, may exceed 55mm within 24 hours, while rainfall intensity could reach up to 35mm per hour.
Low pressure is affecting the region, while dust will remain suspended in the atmosphere until the evening.
Snowfall possible in Troodos
Today’s weather will be mostly cloudy with periods of rain and localised thunderstorms. In the higher peaks of the Troodos Mountains, sleet or snowfall cannot be ruled out later in the afternoon.
Hail is also likely in areas experiencing thunderstorms, where phenomena may at times become prolonged or intense.
Winds will blow from the south to southwest, moderate to strong at 4 to 5 Beaufort and temporarily very strong at 6 Beaufort. The sea will be rough and windward coasts choppy.
Temperatures are expected to reach around 19C inland and along the coast, and 8C in the higher mountains.
Rough seas and falling temperatures overnight
Tonight, conditions will remain mostly cloudy with local rain and isolated thunderstorms. Snow or sleet is again possible over the higher peaks of the Troodos Mountains, while hail may accompany thunderstorms.
Winds will shift to southwesterly to westerly. Inland and in mountainous areas, they will be moderate to strong at 4 to 5 Beaufort. Along the coast, winds will be very strong at 6 Beaufort and temporarily up to severe, reaching 7 Beaufort on windward shores. The sea will be rough to very rough.
Temperatures will drop to around 8C inland, 12C along the coast and 4C in the higher mountains.
Weekend outlook
On Saturday, the weather will initially be partly cloudy with isolated showers or thunderstorms, but conditions are expected to gradually improve.
On Sunday and Monday, the weather will be mostly clear, although increased cloud cover will be observed at intervals.
Temperatures are set to gradually rise, climbing above average climatic values.
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