Severe storm leaves one dead and causes widespread damage across Cyprus
A severe summer storm brought thunderstorms, hail and strong winds to Cyprus, killing one person, injuring several others and causing extensive disruption.
Nicosia, Cyprus. One of the most severe summer storms to hit Cyprus in recent years swept across the island on Saturday, leaving one person dead, several people injured and causing extensive damage in almost every district.
Businessman and former rally driver Dimis Mavropoulos died after the boat he was travelling in struck rocks in difficult weather conditions off Cape Greco.
Rescue operation off Cape Greco
Other people aboard the boat were rescued, while Mavropoulos’ daughter and partner were taken to hospital for treatment.
The search and rescue operation involved the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre, police, the Fire Service and the National Guard.
Emergency calls and damage
The storm brought heavy thunderstorms, hail, strong winds and intense lightning activity, keeping emergency services on constant alert.
The Fire Service received 357 calls nationwide, with the majority of incidents reported in Nicosia district. Reports mainly concerned water pumping, fallen trees and objects, and damage caused by strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Incidents in Nicosia district
A major rescue operation was launched in Agios Dometios after a child became trapped under an awning on the balcony of a fourth-floor apartment. Rescue teams freed the child without injury.
Nicosia recorded flooded roads, fallen trees and power supply disruptions. Lightning activity and strong wind gusts caused faults in the electricity network, with crews working to restore power.
In Kokkinotrimithia, a fire broke out in a large enclosed area containing old vehicles, household appliances and construction materials.
Weather impacts in Larnaca district
Larnaca district was also badly affected by the severe weather. The Meteorological Service recorded waterspouts at sea off the Larnaca coast and said the possibility of tornadoes remained open because of high atmospheric instability.
In Kato Drys, a man from Sri Lanka was struck by lightning and taken to hospital for medical checks. His condition was not considered a cause for concern.
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