Storms sweep across Cyprus: yellow warning until 5pm, roads slippery
Heavy thunderstorms and rain hit the island on Thursday, bringing a metal pergola down onto parked cars in Paphos. Police warn of poor visibility and slippery roads.
Thunderstorms and heavy downpours moved across Cyprus on Thursday, with a metal pergola from a block of flats crashing down onto parked vehicles in Paphos, according to the Cyprus Mail. Police are urging drivers to take care as water on the roads has made surfaces slippery and visibility is reduced.
A yellow warning for severe weather remains in force until 5pm. Thunderstorms are expected to hit the western half of the island first before spreading elsewhere, with rainfall rates of 35 to 55 millimetres per hour, possible hail and brief gusts of seven to eight Beaufort.
The system, which came from the Aegean, brought torrential rain to Larnaca as well, where water gathered in streets and yards. In Paphos, the fallen pergola on Griva Digeni Avenue crushed one car and damaged another; nobody was injured, but both vehicles were extensively damaged and police and municipal officials were at the scene.
What it means for residents
The storm is a practical disruption for anyone on the road today, especially in Paphos and the mountains, where conditions can change quickly. The warning runs until late afternoon, so travel plans should account for delays and reduced visibility.
- Driving: expect standing water and slick surfaces; slow down and keep extra distance, particularly on mountain routes around Agros, Chandria and Kyperounta.
- Property: secure loose objects on balconies and around buildings, as strong gusts can bring down structures like the pergola in Paphos.
- Planning: check local updates before heading out this afternoon and avoid unnecessary travel during the heaviest downpours.
This text is written from the source article and is not a translation of it.
