Cyprus will be wilting under a new heat wave on Wednesday with conditions between noon and 4pm expected to be the most sweltering as temperatures rise to 43°C in the shade.
Speaking to state radio on Wednesday, Meteorological Service official Michalis Mouskos said the hotter than usual weather had prompted the local authorities to issue an Orange Warning alert. An orange alert indicates that there is an increased likelihood of severe weather being a potential risk to life and property.
Mouskos said the height of the inland temperature created heat wave like conditions in the area, in spite of a lack of humidity.
“We also have to keep in mind that the temperatures on the forecast are for in the shade. There can be as much as a 10°C difference in the sun,” he noted.
“Coastal temperatures, meanwhile, will rise to 37°C on the south and east coasts on Wednesday and 34°C on the north and west coasts and in the mountains,” Mouskos added.
With inland temperatures of above 40 anticipated on Thursday, weather officials expect to issue a Yellow Warning once Wednesday’s Orange alert expires, he said.
Yellow means that you should plan ahead thinking about possible travel delays, or the disruption of your day to day activities.
Although a small drop is anticipated between Thursday and Saturday, temperatures will remain above average until then.
A facility providing an air-conditioned space and refreshments to residents of Nicosia. Situated within the municipality’s multipurpose centre by Famagusta Gate, the centre will be open between 7.30am and 6pm over the coming days, Nicosia Municipality said.
The general public and vulnerable members in particular, including the elderly, ailing, pregnant women and young children and babies, are advised to take particular care.
According to the Health Ministry this includes avoiding spending time in the sun particularly during the hottest times of the day, avoiding anything other than very light exercise, wearing light and loos clothing, and wearing a hat and sunglasses when out an about.
People should also a void alcohol, caffeinated drinks including coffee, and heavy, fatty foods, instead selecting light foods including fruit and vegetables, and drinking plenty of water.
Frequent showers can help cool you down while fans and air-conditioning should be used during the hottest times of the day and windows left open at night.
Don’t forget to ensure your pets have adequate shelter and round-the-clock access to fresh water. You may also like to leave out water for strays.
The hottest July day on record in Cyprus occurred earlier this month when inland temperatures reached 45°C on Sunday, July 2. Three elderly people with chronic health problems have also died of heat-related illness and at least another seven admitted to hospital over the past weeks.
Source: in-cyprus.com