Nicosia: A marked drop in temperatures, local showers, and, according to initial forecast data, isolated thunderstorms are expected on Saturday, Meteorological Officer Matthaios Papadakis told CNA on Tuesday. Papadakis said the weather would initially be partly cloudy, becoming mainly cloudy as the day progressed.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the air mass affecting the area, combined with increasing cloud, is expected to bring temperatures down markedly to below-normal levels for the time of year. Papadakis noted that the change would be brief and confined to Saturday. An upper-level trough will bring unstable conditions to the area, and the change is arriving somewhat earlier than usual, as such conditions are generally seen in September.
Seasonal low pressure continues to affect the area on Tuesday, with mainly fine weather and some increased cloud over the mountains, possibly bringing an isolated shower. Temperatures are forecast to reach around 39°C inland, 32°C on the western and southwestern coasts, 35°C elsewhere along the coast, and 30°C in the higher mountains. These temperatures are above the seasonal average of around 36°C to 37°C inland.
Wednesday will be mainly fine, with increased cloud over the mountains in the afternoon. Temperatures will remain at similar levels, reaching around 39°C inland, 35°C on the southern and eastern coasts, 32°C on the western and northern coasts, and 30°C in the higher mountains. Mainly fine weather is also forecast for Thursday and Friday, with temporarily increased cloud and a chance of isolated showers over the mountains after midday. Temperatures will edge down slightly but remain above seasonal averages through Friday.
Asked about El Nino, Papadakis said it remained to be seen how the phenomenon would develop and affect weather conditions in the autumn and winter. He added that the drought observed in Europe over the past two to three years, particularly during the summer months, could not be directly linked to El Nino. While more extreme weather events were possible, it was still too early to determine how conditions would develop.
Papadakis concluded by expressing hope for rain, noting that Cyprus could be more strongly affected by weather patterns similar to those of recent years, while Europe may experience more significant impacts.