While weather conditions of the same intensity as those recorded in Crete are not expected in Cyprus, but with the possibility of strong isolated thunderstorms in the coming days, the weather outlook is taking shape, according to Meteorologist Panagiotis Liggis.
Speaking to KYPE, Mr. Liggis stated that “isolated phenomena, such as isolated thunderstorms that are expected to be severe, cannot be ruled out in the coming days,” noting that, based on current data, the extreme weather events being recorded in Crete do not appear to be affecting Cyprus.
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As he explained, thunderstorms are already being reported northwest of Cyprus in Polis Chrysochous, Pyrgos Tillyrias, and the Akamas region, while local showers and isolated thunderstorms are expected to affect other areas as well.
“Today we expect other areas to be affected as well—namely mountainous areas, inland regions, and the north—with a focus on the occupied territories,” he said, adding that in southern Cyprus the weather events will be more isolated.
When asked whether there is a possibility that Cyprus could face extreme weather events similar to those in Crete, Mr. Liggis stated that “based on the data we have before us, it appears that we will not experience them.”
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He also noted that, in the worst-case scenario, a yellow warning could be issued today and tomorrow, provided the specified meteorological criteria are met. “So far, no yellow warning has been issued,” he said.
Rain Tonight and Sunday
According to Mr. Liggis, weather disturbances are expected again tonight, mainly along the coast, with the western and southern coasts being affected the most.
The weather is expected to continue into Sunday morning, mainly in the Paphos and Limassol districts, while by midday it is likely to affect more southerly inland areas as well, he said.
He also said that by the afternoon, more precipitation is expected, mainly in the mountains, inland, and in the northern regions.
The meteorologist noted that there is also a possibility of hail, though this cannot be predicted with certainty. As he explained, the available data could indicate small hail, and given the time of year, this possibility cannot be ruled out.
Phenomena of smaller scale, but potentially significant in intensity
Referring to the weather forecast for the coming days, Mr. Liggis said that the phenomena are expected to continue through Tuesday and Wednesday, mainly during the afternoon hours and primarily in mountainous and inland areas.
“In the coming days, we expect the phenomena to be less widespread, but their intensity is likely to be significant,” he said.
Regarding the weekend’s rains and whether they can help replenish water reserves, Mr. Liggis noted that it is difficult to estimate at this point the extent to which there will be a substantial benefit.
As he explained, these are mainly isolated downpours, which may be intense but short-lived. At the same time, he noted that the ground at this time of year “remains quite parched.”
Gradually moving toward fall
When asked to comment on whether the change in weather essentially signals the transition from summer to fall, Mr. Liggis stated that it is still too early to draw such a definitive conclusion.
As he explained, the definition of the seasons is not based solely on a change in the weather, but is linked to specific data and criteria, while noting that “we are gradually entering fall,” as the length of the day is gradually decreasing.
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