The Department of Labour Inspection issued a public health advisory in Cyprus due to high concentrations of dust particles (PM10) today. Vulnerable groups are advised to avoid spending time outdoors, and employers with outdoor workplaces must follow specific safety measures. The latest hourly dust concentrations in various locations exceeded the legal limit, with real-time updates available on the Department’s website and a mobile app.
Friday will have increased cloud cover and dust in the atmosphere, with winds mainly from the north-east to south-east. Temperatures will reach 33 degrees Celsius inland, 30 degrees Celsius on the coasts, and 26 degrees Celsius in the mountains. On Saturday, there will be more cloud cover and isolated showers. Sunday and Monday will have partly to mostly cloudy skies with isolated showers and thunderstorms.
A high pressure system and warm, dry currents are causing Saharan dust particles to linger in the atmosphere, with PM10 levels exceeding safety limits in some areas. The dust is expected to persist until Wednesday, causing discomfort for those with respiratory issues, heart conditions, asthma, hypertension, and children. Temperatures are well above average, with light winds and calm seas.
Limassol had the highest level of dust in the atmosphere on Tuesday, more than double the safe level. Larnaca also had high levels of dust. The weather service attributed this to a low pressure front and heavy rainfall was expected later in the day. The Department of Labour Inspection urged the public and vulnerable groups to avoid open spaces due to the negative effects of dust on human health. The latest hourly dust concentrations in various areas were measured. The Meteorological Service issued a yellow warning for heavy rainfall and continued high levels of dust. The weather was expected to remain unsettled with occasional showers and thunderstorms until the end of the week.