The weather in Cyprus is set to change. Rain, thunderstorms, and possible hail are on the way.

After a period of stable weather the weather in Cyprus will change significantlyThe island will be under the influence of a low pressure system moving from the area south of Crete. The first showers and local thunderstorms may occur on the afternoon of Thursday, September 17th, with more severe conditions expected in the evening and overnight.

Initially, rain is expected to fall mainly in the mountains, inland, and in the west. By evening, the rain zone may extend to other regions. Localized thunderstorms may be accompanied by hail, heavy rain, and gusty winds. Particular caution should be exercised along the coast.

Weather in Cyprus influenced by low pressure

The change in conditions is attributed to a low-pressure system centered south of Crete. The low pressure system is moving northeast and will begin to affect the eastern Mediterranean.

Thursday will be partly cloudy, with periods of mostly cloudy. Clouds will begin to develop from midday, bringing a chance of isolated showers and local thunderstorms.

The first phenomena are expected primarily in Troodos, the island's interior, and the western regions. However, this doesn't mean there will be rain everywhere. Rainfall and thunderstorms will be localized, so conditions may vary significantly even between neighboring towns.

More rain in the evening

The more active part of the system is expected to reach the island on Thursday evening, with the likelihood of precipitation increasing in other regions as well.

In coastal areas, rain may become heavier or last longer in places. Short-lived downpours, hail, and sudden wind gusts are possible during storms.

The biggest threat isn't the rain itself, but the large volume of water falling in a short period of time. On some Cypriot roads, water can quickly accumulate in depressions, under viaducts, and on sections with poor drainage.

Drivers should also exercise caution on mountain roads and roads near dry riverbeds. Do not attempt to drive through a flooded section of roadway if the depth of the water is difficult to assess.

Thunderstorms are still possible on Friday

The weather will remain unsettled on Friday. Showers and isolated thunderstorms are still possible, especially in the mountains and inland.

Temperatures are expected to cool, dropping in some areas below typical September values. The noticeable change will be particularly pronounced in regions experiencing precipitation and increased cloud cover.

The exact course of the weather will depend on the direction and speed of the low pressure. Forecasts regarding the location of storms can change within hours, so it's worth checking the latest updates from the Cyprus Meteorological Department before traveling.

A warning may be issued later

At the time of preparation of the material, there was no nationwide meteorological warning in force related to the approaching low pressure.

This doesn't mean, however, that an alert won't be issued. The Meteorology Department issues warnings after more precisely determining the expected duration, intensity, and area of occurrence of dangerous phenomena.

If forecasts are confirmed, residents of western regions, mountainous areas, and the coast should prepare for local disruptions. It's worth securing items left on balconies, closing windows before leaving home, and considering slower driving.

The biggest change is expected from Thursday afternoon into Friday. However, the weather won't be uniform across the island – some locations may receive heavy rainfall, while others may experience light or no rain.

Sources: Department of Meteorology of the Republic of Cyprus, SigmaLive, Cyprus News