Cyprus’s meteorological service has issued an emergency bulletin about deteriorating weather conditions.
It says temperatures in the interior of the country are expected to exceed 41°C today, causing suffocating heat.
Temperatures are forecast to rise to 41°C inland, around 35°C in the south, east and north coasts and around 33°C on the west coast and in the higher mountains. Winds will initially be variable and light, and later become mainly southwesterly to northwesterly. The sea will be slightly rough.
On Tuesday night, the weather will be mainly clear with temperatures set to drop to around 24°C on the coast and to 22°C in the higher mountains.
The mercury is expected to continue climbing until Friday, when the heatwave will start to gradually ease.
What can you do to stay safe in the heat?
The Civil Defence Force has issued recommendations to the public to prevent and properly prepare to minimise the risks and negative consequences of the heat wave.
It has told people to avoid unnecessary travel and heavy physical work, avoid sunbathing, walking for long periods or running and avoid crowded places in the sun.
Wearing cool, comfortable and light-coloured clothes, protecting your head with a hat and wearing good quality sunglasses that protect against the sun’s reflection are advised.
People have also been told to eat small, light meals, rich in fruit and vegetables and low in fat, drink plenty of water and fruit and vegetable juices and avoid alcoholic drinks.
The Civil Defence force has said people should also avoid sudden changes in temperature and use artificial means of ventilation (fans) or air conditioning where they can. If health problems do arise, you are advised to consult your doctor.
People in Cyprus have also been told to take care of relatives or other close people who are elderly or especially vulnerable to the heat.
