Deadly storm batters Cyprus, leaving one dead and widespread disruption

A sudden and violent storm swept across Cyprus, causing widespread disruption and claiming one life. The intense weather conditions led to a fatality in the Kavo Greco area on Saturday afternoon, where strong seas and turbulent waves battered the coast.

The storm's fury resulted in three boats being washed ashore and destroyed by the rough seas. The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre activated the national plan "NEAΡΧΟΣ," deploying emergency forces, including the Fire Service, Police, and two helicopters from the Police and National Guard. Six individuals were rescued from the churning waters.

Tragically, one man was found unresponsive by a rescue helicopter crew and was rushed to Ammochostos General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Two other survivors were hospitalized with injuries, while the remaining three received first aid and were reported to be in good condition.

Beyond the coastal incidents, the storm unleashed heavy rainfall, lightning, and gale-force winds across the island. This extreme weather caused flash flooding on roads, uprooted trees, and triggered landslides. The Fire Service responded to numerous calls for assistance, with Nicosia experiencing the most severe problems. In Kato Drys, a 45-year-old man was struck by lightning and is currently hospitalized.

The adverse weather also severely impacted air travel, forcing the diversion of eleven flights. Additionally, the electricity grid suffered significant damage, with forty medium-voltage faults reported due to lightning strikes and falling branches. Power crews are working to restore electricity, and authorities are urging the public to avoid unnecessary travel.