40 c — 40 c — Cyprus is bracing for a scorching heatwave, with temperatures expected to soar to 40°C in inland areas from mid-July. This comes as summer showers, a typical seasonal occurrence, are expected to ease off, according to the Department of Meteorology.
0 c: Typical Summer Showers Expected to Recede
Andreas Chrysanthou, a representative from the Department of Meteorology, stated that the summer showers experienced in Cyprus are a normal part of the climatic cycle and not influenced by climate change. “It is a common phenomenon, these summer showers, particularly in mountain areas,” Chrysanthou noted. These showers generally occur until mid-July, after which the weather is predicted to be mainly clear.
Rising Temperatures Mark a Transition
As June comes to a close, temperatures across Cyprus have been slightly above seasonal averages. Inland areas, which typically see averages between 33°C and 34°C, are expected to finish the month with an average temperature around 37°C. Chrysanthou indicated, “Not something extreme. We are two to four degrees above average in some cases,” describing the month as a very cool June with sporadic summer showers.
Hydrological Factors and Fire Risks
The weather patterns this year have been influenced by significant rainfall since December 2022, contributing to a good hydrological year. This increase in soil moisture acts as a buffer against the outbreak and spread of wildfires, a concern during the hotter months. Chrysanthou remarked that the moisture helps mitigate potential fire hazards.
Forecast for the Coming Days
From the weekend through to Wednesday, some instability will remain, leading to showers and possible thunderstorms in certain inland regions and mountainous areas. Chrysanthou explained that this instability is particularly pronounced in the Mesaoria valley, where the flat terrain allows for the rapid heating of lower atmospheric layers, resulting in cloud formation and thunderstorms. On Saturday, temperatures are forecasted to be around 33°C inland, gradually increasing to between 35°C and 37°C by Tuesday.
Mid-July Heatwave on the Horizon
Looking ahead, the period from mid-July to mid-August is anticipated to be the hottest of the year, with temperatures likely to reach or exceed 40°C in inland areas. Chrysanthou assured that there are no indications of significant changes to this pattern, leading to expectations of persistent heat.
