RAINY WEATHER SET TO CONTINUE FOR NEXT 12 DAYS - in-cyprus 2/4
Cyprus is set to continue receiving above-normal rainfall through to 14 April, according to an updated medium-term climate forecast issued by the WMO Climate Watch Advisory Group — but the Department of Meteorology is cautioning that the island’s water reserves remain under serious pressure after years of drought.
The forecast, which covers the eastern Mediterranean including Cyprus, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Lebanon and Syria, puts the probability of above-normal rainfall for Cyprus in the coming period at between 70% and 90%.
Weekly positive rainfall anomalies are expected mainly in the range of +10mm to +50mm, with local peaks of up to +75mm possible. Absolute weekly accumulated rainfall is estimated mainly between 25mm and 75mm, with locally higher totals in exposed areas.
The conditions are expected to drive continued increases in soil moisture and surface runoff, with a temporary improvement in hydrological conditions also anticipated. Locally, intense or prolonged rainfall episodes cannot be ruled out, which may cause isolated problems in vulnerable areas.
Despite the comparatively favourable outlook, the Department of Meteorology stressed that the overall hydrological situation remains under pressure. Water reserves have stayed at low levels following a prolonged drought period, and prudent water use remains essential.
Climate projections for the eastern Mediterranean point to reduced rainfall quantities in the future, further intensifying water pressure — making rational and limited water use a necessity rather than a choice, the assessments note.
The Department of Meteorology said it is monitoring conditions and will issue further updates as required.
