Isolated showers and thunderstorms are affecting many areas of the country, as March draws to a decidedly wet close, following a prolonged period of unseasonably high temperatures, intense drought and hazardous atmospheric dust, which however is forecast to return tomorrow.
This is much needed beneficial rainfall, given the extended water scarcity, the worst in decades. It would take however a number of weeks of significant showers to even slightly alleviate any potential summer issues.
Due to heavy rainfall in several areas and water accumulation on roads, drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution, drive at low speeds, maintain safe distances from vehicles ahead and keep their headlights on.
A yellow warning is in effect, issued by the Kitas weather meteorological service, advising the public to be vigilant, particularly in the areas of the storms.
Atmospheric conditions will support the development of pulse severe thunderstorms, with the possibility of multicell thunderstorms.
Primary hazards include heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and hail reaching or slightly exceeding 2 centimetres, with a chance of hail accumulation.
Locally, due to the intensity and persistence of thunderstorms over specific areas, rainfall amounts may reach or exceed 45 millimetres within 1 hour or 55 millimetres within 3 hours in mountainous/semi-mountainous regions, particularly in the eastern part of the Troodos mountain range, while rainfall amounts may reach or exceed 30 to 40 millimetres.
