Intense rainfall in Nicosia district

Police on Monday urged motorists to be cautious in Nicosia, as intense rainfall in several areas of the district is affecting traffic, making road surfaces slippery and visibility limited.

According to the police, traffic is particularly affected on roads in central Nicosia and along the Nicosia-Limassol highway, up to the areas of Lympia and Korfi areas, as well as on the Nicosia-Kokkinotrimithia highway, up to the Astromeritis area, due to heavy rainfall and strong winds that started around 2pm.

Rainfall and hailstorms were also reported in various areas near Troodos areas, with visibility also affected. Roads, however, are still open to traffic.

“Particular attention is urged for those travelling on the road network in areas affected by the weather, while motorists are urged to drive at a safe, reduced speed, maintain a safe distance from preceding vehicles, and keep their vehicle’s headlights on,” a police statement said.

The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for heavy thunderstorms in effect until 7pm on Monday.

“The precipitation rate is expected to range between 35 and 55 millimetres per hour, while hail is also likely,” the Met Office said in a statement.

Showers and isolated thunderstorms are expected to affect the entire island until Wednesday, with weather conditions likely to improve from Thursday onwards.