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cold weather, Cyprus, Kleanthis Nicolaides, snow, troodos

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People were really feeling the cold yesterday

NICOSIA could see light snowfall today as Cyprus is experiencing the coldest days so far of the current winter period with lower mountain regions already hit with snow.

“Most of Cyprus and the south-eastern Mediterranean has been affected by a low pressure weather-front which has brought with it rain and storms,” high-ranking official at the Meteorological Service, Kleanthis Nicolaides said. “The front has moved north-easterly meaning Cyprus is being affected by the colder part of it, resulting in a fall in temperatures. There have been no rain storms because clouds cannot develop at low grounds, although light rain and snowfall can occur above heights of 3500 to 4000 feet,” he added.

He added that the temperatures that are being recorded, both highest and lowest, are substantially lower than usual for this time of year, with the temperature yesterday morning in Athalassa Park recorded at 7C. Temperatures in coastal regions are varying from 7C to 10C and at Prodromos peak there is ice with the temperature falling below zero.

Usual temperatures for the period are 15C-16C for inland areas, 16C-17C in coastal areas and in Prodromos around 6C, roughly double the current temperatures, according to the Meteorological Service.

“The weather will remain the same today, and there may be rain, snow or sleet coinciding with periods of cloudy weather,” Nicolaides said.

“There will be snow and sleet in lower mountain areas of higher than 3000 feet, at around the height of Kakopetria,” he added.

He went on to say that today there is a small chance there will be light snowfall in lower areas and we may see snowflakes in the capital although it is probably unlikely.

On Monday in Troodos there was intermittent snowfall with the depth of snow reaching 10cm in the morning in Troodos Square and 20cm at the peak.

“Tuesday [last] night is expected to be especially cold as Cyprus is being affected by the coldest part of the weather front,” Nicolaides said. “Temperatures in the mountains could reach freezing point so those planning on visiting mountainous areas are advised to be extremely mindful of the ice,” he added.

“Statistically, this winter is progressing very well since rainfall from October 1 has been more than usual for this period and the dams are almost full,” he concluded.

From tomorrow temperatures are expected to return to normal levels for this time of year.