Fire risk critical forestry department warns

With fires raging in Greece and Turkey, the Forestry Department has reminded the public that a red fire warning alert is in place in Cyprus.

The forestry Department said several fires had broken out by noon on Wednesday and warned that the critical weather and dry conditions could lead to rapid or dramatic increases in forest fires. The slightest spark could cause a huge fire, the department said.

It reminded the public that the burning of grass, twigs and garbage is prohibited, while the use of tools in the countryside or agricultural machinery that produce sparks or flames, should be avoided. It added that lit cigarette butts must not been thrown on the ground.

The met office, meanwhile, has issued another orange weather warning for Wednesday night through Thursday afternoon.

According to the warning, the minimum temperature on Thursday 1am is expected to be 27 degrees Celsius inland and 26C on the northern coast. The warning, valid until 5pm Thursday, said that temperature is expected to reach to 43C inland and 35C in the higher mountainous areas.

Anyone who spots smoke or fire in or near the forest should contact 1407 (Forestry Department) or 112 (Fire Department).