Severe Storm Hits Cyprus: Over 80 People in Nicosia Request Help

Last weekend, Cyprus was battered by severe weather. Gale-force winds uprooted trees, tore roofs off buildings, and toppled scaffolding. Power outages were reported across the island, and in Nicosia alone, 87 people sought assistance from emergency services.

The strong winds, reaching 7 on the Beaufort scale, caused widespread damage and disruptions in many parts of the island. Social media posts revealed that the capital, Nicosia, was among the hardest-hit areas.

The majority of calls to emergency services involved fallen trees, damaged power lines, and stationary objects displaced by the wind. The most serious incident occurred in Agios Dometios, where a driver became trapped after severed power lines fell onto his car. The fire department responded, rescuing the man, who was later transported to Nicosia General Hospital. Thankfully, his condition is not life-threatening.

In another case, a second driver was trapped due to fallen cables. The Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) cut power to the area, allowing rescue teams to safely free the driver.

Elsewhere in the city, strong winds uprooted trees and destroyed Christmas decorations installed for the New Year. Solar panels were blown off rooftops, and a large tree fell on the Mosfiloti-Alhambra road, blocking traffic.

According to a spokesperson for the fire department, nine rescue teams were deployed to handle emergencies.

The Electricity Authority reported that most power outages occurred in Nicosia and Larnaca districts. Flying debris struck medium- and low-voltage power lines, while fallen trees caused additional damage. Repair crews were dispatched across affected areas, though their work was hindered by the persistent high winds.

Volunteer groups, including Support Cy, ETEA-SOS, and the Cyprus Rescue Team, also joined efforts to address the storm's aftermath.

Meanwhile, the island’s highest mountains saw their first snowfall of the season. Meteorologists predict that the adverse weather will continue in Cyprus for several more days.

Emergency Contacts in Cyprus