Dust concentrations far above safe limits
The latest dust wave in Cyprus reached extremely high levels, Meteorological Department spokesperson Andreas Chrysanthou said while speaking on the programme “Protoselido”.
Measurements showed particularly severe concentrations in Paphos district, where dust peaked at 750 micrograms per cubic metre – around fifteen times higher than the permitted limit of 50 micrograms. Chrysanthou stressed that the phenomenon did not develop briefly, as successive waves of dust, mainly from the west, gradually affected the island.
Low-pressure systems drive dust transport
Chrysanthou explained that barometric disturbances and low-pressure systems directly trigger such episodes. When these systems form, mainly over the Italian region, they often extend towards North Africa, affecting Algeria, Libya and Egypt, with Libya acting as the main source.
Strong atmospheric lifting raises large quantities of dust, which then travel eastwards towards Cyprus as the systems move across the region. He noted that the same pattern appeared during the last two weather disturbances, with yesterday’s system carrying especially heavy dust loads.
Dust events becoming more frequent in the region
Based on statistical and research data, Chrysanthou warned that a dust wave could occur more frequently across the Eastern Mediterranean, a trend authorities must take seriously.
Although no official scientific study directly links dust to intense hail events, operational forecasting and real-world observations show a clear pattern. Days with high dust concentrations combined with low-pressure systems often favour hailstorms. Dust and other suspended particles act as condensation nuclei, supporting hail formation when moisture and atmospheric instability increase.
He recalled a similar event two years ago on Green Monday, when Nicosia experienced heavy hail following a severe dust episode.
Severe storms affected the island overnight
Chrysanthou said intense storms developed from the afternoon hours, starting around 18:00 from the west, at the same time the Meteorological Department issued a yellow weather warning.
Storms continued throughout the night across Cyprus, bringing periods of strong thunderstorms, significant rainfall and localised hail. These conditions produced notable rainfall totals and high rainfall intensity.
Temperatures remain seasonal
He clarified that temperatures remain within normal seasonal ranges, at around 15–16 degrees Celsius inland and 16–17 degrees in coastal areas. No extreme temperatures appeared or are expected. Forecasts indicate a slight rise in the coming days, while remaining close to average levels.
More rain ahead and increased snowfall
Looking ahead, Chrysanthou said the weather will remain generally wet, with intermittent rain and thunderstorms in the coming days. More intense phenomena are expected on Friday and Saturday, while a new organised disturbance is forecast from Sunday night and mainly on Monday.
He also highlighted the impact on snowfall, noting that snow depth at Chionistra rose from 16 to 28 centimetres, delivering a strong accumulation in higher mountainous areas.
Reservoir recovery still limited
Turning to the hydrological situation, Chrysanthou urged caution despite recent improvements. Although rainfall has significantly moistened the ground, prolonged dry conditions earlier in the season prevented meaningful inflows into reservoirs.
Inflow levels should increase in the coming period, but he warned against unrealistic expectations. Full recovery requires two or more consecutive good rainfall years.
A satisfactory but not outstanding year
While December and January – traditionally the wettest months – exceeded average rainfall, and early indications point to a positive February, Chrysanthou described the current year as satisfactory rather than exceptional.
With rainfall totals reaching around 80–90% of average levels, the season cannot reverse the difficult reservoir situation following an extended drought.
Long-term planning remains essential
Concluding, Chrysanthou emphasised the need for vigilance, pointing to the island’s approximate eight-year climatological cycle. Very good hydrological years now occur less often, with longer gaps between them.
Good years will continue, he said, but their frequency continues to change – a reality that long-term planning must seriously consider.
Also read: Paphos-Limassol motorway crash leaves driver seriously injured
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
