Heavy snowfall in the Troodos region has caused significant disruptions to the road network, with authorities warning of treacherous driving conditions as temperatures plummet to as low as -11C in the mountains.
The affected areas blanketed in snow and ice have led to road closures and restrictions for certain types of vehicles.
An orange weather warning for extremely low temperatures is in effect from 10pm on Saturday until 8am on Sunday. According to the Meteorology Department, temperatures in the highest mountain areas are expected to drop to around -11C.
The cold air mass, named Coral, is influencing the region, bringing partly cloudy to mostly cloudy conditions, scattered showers, and snowfall in mountainous and semi-mountainous areas. Light snow, sleet and frost may also be observed in lower-altitude regions.
The police have announced that only four-wheel-drive vehicles or those fitted with snow chains are permitted on roads leading to Troodos, including routes from Platres, Karvounas, and Prodromos. Other roads, particularly in Agros, Pedoulas, and Kyperounda, remain open but are slippery due to ice.
Roads in urban areas and along the main highways remain clear, with no major traffic issues reported. However, authorities urge all drivers to exercise caution, adhere to the highway code, and obey traffic signs to prevent accidents.
During the day on Saturday, the temperature will reach around 8C inland, 11C along the coast, and -2C in higher mountainous areas. Frost will persist in the mountains and some semi-mountainous regions.
Overnight, increased cloud cover may bring isolated showers and snowfall at higher elevations, with temperatures expected to drop to 0C inland, 2C along the coast, and -11C in the highest mountains.
The cold conditions will continue through Monday, with temperatures remaining well below seasonal averages before a slight rise is expected on Tuesday. The snow depth, as of early morning, was 3 cm in Troodos Square and 5 cm in Chionistra.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as weather conditions evolve, with further updates expected should conditions worsen.
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