Heavy rains and hail in various areas of the Nicosia-Limassol highway on Tuesday at noon heavily impacted visibility for motorists, police said as a yellow weather warning remained in place.

According to a statement and videos circulating on social media, the road surface turned very slippery, with severe weather forcing drivers to pay extra attention on the road, especially the highway.

Police urged motorists to drive with caution and to keep a low speed, as well as a safe distance from other vehicles. The use of headlights was also recommended.

The met office had earlier issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms in effect from noon until 5pm.

Thunderstorms are expected to affect mainly the north and mountainous parts of the island during which rainfall may at times exceed the rate of 35 millimeters per hour and hail is possible.

Snow is also possible on the highest peaks of Troodos.

On Tuesday night, the weather will be mostly clear with some local isolated rains mainly in the north.

Temperatures are not expected to change significantly during the week and will remain close to average for the season.