The severe weather affecting Cyprus has caused problems on the road network, as well as flooding, landslides, and people becoming trapped. The severe weather began in Paphos and spread to the other districts, putting the relevant authorities on high alert.
Watch the report by Rafaela Stavrinou:
Read more: Fire Department Can’t Keep Up: Basements Flooded, Drains Blocked, and Trees Fell
Calm conditions
In Paphos, torrential rains caused flooding and problems on the road network, while six tourists were trapped in the Avakas Gorge and were rescued with the help of the police. The road from Pegeia to Lara became impassable due to the raging waters of the Aspros River, while landslides were also reported on the Paphos–Polis Chrysochous road.
The Fire Department received eight calls to pump out water and address problems caused by the severe weather, while a lightning strike caused a fire at a hotel in Chloraka, which was evacuated as a precaution. Meanwhile, a flight from Glasgow bound for Paphos was diverted to Larnaca Airport. In Limassol, the heavy rainfall was short-lived and did not cause widespread problems; however, landslides and rockfalls were reported on mountain roads. On the Limassol–Nicosia highway, near Moni, a vehicle burst into flames after crashing into the guardrail; the driver managed to escape in time.
In the districts of Larnaca and Famagusta, severe weather conditions also made their presence felt, with Larnaca on high alert as night fell. According to a statement from the Fire Department, calls were received to clear storm drains on flooded streets, while in the Agioi Anargyroi area, the service had to intervene to assist a driver who was trapped inside his vehicle.
Crews from the Larnaca District Local Government Organization are on standby to address the issues, while special attention is also being paid to airport operations due to the possibility of more severe weather conditions overnight. All district fire departments remain on high alert, with the orange warning in effect until 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.
See coverage from Paphos, Limassol, and Larnaca
