A fire broke out late on Friday afternoon at the Paphos desalination plant, between Mandria and Kouklia, causing extensive damage.

The fire was reported to have spread rapidly, almost completely destroying the plant.

According to the fire department, workers became aware of the fire at 7.15pm and reported it immediately.

The workers on shift managed to exit the plant safely.

The scene has been cordoned off by the police.

Five fire engines are battling with the flames.

Fire department spokeswoman Koula Mesaritou told the Cyprus News Agency that the cause of the fire will be investigated in cooperation with the police after the fire is extinguished.

Philenews sources said it appeared that the fire started in a storeroom housing flammable chemicals necessary for the processing and cleansing of seawater.