A red weather warning has been issued for Wednesday and Thursday, valid from 11am till 5pm.

The Meteorological Department announced on Tuesday that temperatures on Wednesday are expected to peak at 45C inland and 36C in the highest mountains.

A yellow warning for high temperatures overnight is in place for Tuesday night, from 10pm till Wednesday morning at 9am, with temperatures not dropping below 27C inland, 26C along the coast and 24C in the highest mountains.

Earlier on Tuesday, met office expert Andreas Chrysanthou told the Cyprus News Agency that Wednesday and Thursday are expected to be the hottest days and the last days of the current heatwave, with temperatures set to rise to a maximum of 45C inland, 39C on the coasts and 37C in the mountains.

After that, he said, temperatures will drop on Friday, with a maximum expected temperature between 40 and 42C, before the mercury will fall below 40 across the island on Saturday.

He did, however, warn that stronger winds are forecast for Friday, increasing the risk of wildfires.

He then said that with temperatures set to decrease, rain may be possible in the mountains.

During the heatwave, heavy and moderate work outside is forbidden between 11am and 5pm. Deliveries on mopeds, bicycles or e-scooters must also cease from noon till 4pm.

The ban is for inland areas with an altitude lower than 300m and over 10km from the coast, and the mountains at an altitude over 1,150m.

Workers in other areas are advised to take regular breaks.

The public is urged to drink plenty of water and eat light meals, avoiding sugary foods, alcohol and caffeine.