Nicosia: A yellow weather warning for isolated heavy thunderstorms is in place until 18:00 Saturday, while high concentrations of dust are observed also today.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Meteorology Department has issued a warning indicating that between 06:00 and 18:00 on Saturday, isolated heavy thunderstorms are expected to affect the island. These storms will start in the west and gradually spread to other areas. The warning also highlights the possibility of hail during these thunderstorms, with variable and intensifying winds. The precipitation rate could locally exceed 35 millimeters per hour.
A Meteorology Department official, speaking to CNA, confirmed that high dust concentrations are also being observed on Saturday. This situation is expected to clear by midday on Sunday. Although the weather is expected to improve in the afternoon, there is a likelihood of similar weather conditions recurring on Sunday. The possibility of issuing a new yellow warning will be evaluated based on the evolving conditions.
The Department of Labour Inspection has also reported high dust concentrations in the air on Saturday. According to measurements from ground stations of the Air Quality Monitoring Network, citizens, especially vulnerable groups such as children, older people, and the infirm, are advised to avoid being outdoors until the dust episode subsides. The respirable particles in the dust can have adverse effects on health.
Employers are urged to take precautions for their workers, as per The Safety and Health at Work (Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons at Work During Dust Episodes) Order of 2022. This includes assessing risks and ensuring that workers in open spaces use appropriate personal protection.
The Department provided the latest hourly dust concentrations measured at 08:00 am, with varying levels across different regions. Notably, Paralimni recorded the highest concentration at 1082.9 µg/m3, significantly exceeding the daily limit value of 50 µg/m3 set by legislation. More information on pollutant concentrations and updates are available online and through the 'Air Quality Cyprus' mobile application.