MVP

Tag: meteorology

  • Cloud Seeding Considered as Cyprus Faces Water Crisis

    Cloud Seeding Considered as Cyprus Faces Water Crisis

    Cloud seeding is being examined as a potential solution to alleviate water scarcity in Cyprus, which is bracing for a fourth consecutive winter of drought. The agriculture ministry has acknowledged the dire situation, with the island’s dams currently holding only 11 per cent of their capacity, raising urgent concerns about the future of water supply.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Urgent Call for Action

    Kleanthis Nicolaides, the former head of the meteorology department, has been vocal in advocating for cloud seeding as an alternative to manage the escalating water crisis. He has highlighted the alarming lack of rainfall this October, which has left the dams critically low and prompted discussions about the potential of weather modification technologies.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Assessing the Current Drought Situation

    The gravity of the drought was underscored by Nicolaides, who suggested that official figures may misrepresent the true condition of the reservoirs, stating that sediment accumulation in the dams is likely leading to inaccurate capacity measurements. “The situation is worse than what the official data shows,” he remarked, reinforcing the need for immediate action.

    Exploring Cloud Seeding

    Cloud seeding involves dispersing substances into the atmosphere that can act as cloud condensation or ice nuclei. Common agents include silver iodide and potassium iodide, with hygroscopic materials like table salt gaining attention for their moisture-attracting properties. While the technology has shown promise, its effectiveness remains a topic of debate.

    Nicolaides acknowledged that while cloud seeding is not a silver bullet, it warrants exploration given the severe circumstances. “In these desperate times, the government should explore the option,” he stated. He also described the operational aspects of cloud seeding, which may require aircraft equipped with specialized equipment to disperse the substances effectively.

    Potential Costs and Agricultural Impact

    The agricultural sector is already feeling the pressure, with the Water Development Department advising farmers to refrain from planting seasonal crops. This has resulted in reduced availability of staple items like lettuce and potatoes, leading to anticipated price increases. “Lack of water means agricultural products will go up in price,” Nicolaides warned, highlighting the broader economic implications of water scarcity.

    Historical Context of Cloud Seeding in Cyprus

    Reflecting on past efforts, Nicolaides recalled that Cyprus had previously experimented with cloud seeding during a drought in the early 1970s. However, the results of those initiatives were never fully assessed due to the outbreak of war in 1974. “This was done over a period of a couple of years, but the results were never properly evaluated,” he noted.

    Government Considerations

    The government has been exploring the feasibility of cloud seeding, with the meteorology department confirming that it is closely monitoring international developments in weather modification technologies. Philippos Tymvios, the current director of the meteorology department, stated that proposals for cloud seeding have been submitted by at least two private companies. “All proposals are being reviewed carefully, with the guidance of independent scientific experts,” he added.

    While there is no operational cloud seeding programme currently in place, Tymvios indicated that the government is considering all scientifically credible options to address the long-term water scarcity affecting Cyprus. “Any future initiative would be based on robust scientific evidence and full alignment with public interest safeguards,” he assured.

    Challenges and Future Directions

    Despite the interest in cloud seeding, there are significant challenges to its implementation. A study by the United States National Academy of Sciences has cast doubt on the effectiveness of cloud seeding, failing to find statistically significant evidence to support its impact on precipitation. Similarly, a 2010 study from Tel Aviv University indicated that traditional cloud seeding materials may have little effect on rainfall amounts.

    As the debate continues, Nicolaides emphasised the need for a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to evaluate potential methods for enhancing rainfall. He noted that with the dams nearly empty, Cyprus increasingly relies on desalination and boreholes for its water supply, which further complicates the issue. “Desalination is no fix-all,” he cautioned, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

    Looking Ahead

    With Cyprus facing a critical juncture in its water management strategy, the exploration of cloud seeding and other innovative solutions will be essential in tackling the ongoing drought. As the government weighs its options, the experiences of other countries that have successfully implemented weather modification technologies may provide valuable insights. The path forward will require careful consideration, transparency, and collaboration with scientific experts to ensure any initiatives align with the public’s best interests.

  • Cyprus weather — Cyprus Weather Forecast: Clear Skies and Temperatures Reaching 35°C

    Cyprus weather — Cyprus Weather Forecast: Clear Skies and Temperatures Reaching 35°C

    cyprus weather — cyprus weather — The weather in Cyprus is set to be predominantly fine on Tuesday, with temperatures soaring to a high of 35°C in inland and southeastern coastal areas. According to the Department of Meteorology, while the day may start with clear skies, expect some temporary high cloud cover as the day progresses.

    • The sea conditions are projected to be smooth to slight, making it a good day for those planning to venture out onto the water.

    Cyprus weather: Winds and Sea Conditions

    Winds will initially blow from the northeast to southeast, later shifting to westerly and northwesterly in the western and southwestern regions. Currently at Force 3 Beaufort, these winds are anticipated to strengthen locally to a moderate Force 3-4 Beaufort by the afternoon.

    The sea conditions are projected to be smooth to slight, making it a good day for those planning to venture out onto the water.

    Temperature Expectations

    As previously mentioned, temperatures across various regions will vary. Inland and in the southeastern coastal areas, expect highs around 35°C. The remaining coastal areas will see temperatures reaching approximately 32°C, while in the higher mountainous regions, it will be cooler at around 26°C.

    Midweek Weather Outlook

    The forecast for Wednesday and Thursday indicates mainly clear conditions, although there will be an increase in cloud cover during midday and afternoon periods. On Thursday, residents south of the Troodos Mountains may experience isolated showers due to this cloud development.

    By Friday, expect further increases in cloud cover, which may lead to isolated rainfall, particularly affecting mountainous areas. Throughout the week, temperatures are not expected to fluctuate significantly, remaining slightly above the seasonal average.

  • Heat warning: Met Department Warns of Extreme Heat on Friday

    Heat warning: Met Department Warns of Extreme Heat on Friday

    heat warning — The Met Department has issued a yellow heat warning for extreme maximum temperatures set to impact the region on Friday, 22 August 2025. Effective from 12:00 noon until 17:00, this warning highlights that inland areas could reach a scorching 41°C.

    Heat warning: Temperature Projections and Regional Differences

    According to the Met Department, while the interior regions brace for intense heat, mountain areas are expected to be slightly cooler at around 32°C. Coastal conditions will vary based on specific locations, reflecting the diverse climate across different terrains.

    Current Weather Patterns

    A seasonal low pressure system is influencing local weather, resulting in predominantly clear skies with occasional low cloud cover. Winds are forecasted to begin as light and variable at 3 Beaufort, shifting to predominantly southwesterly to northwesterly at 3-4 Beaufort strength. Coastal areas may experience temporarily moderate to strong winds, reaching 4-5 Beaufort.

    Daily Temperature Expectations

    For today, the maximum temperatures are projected to hit 41°C inland. Coastal areas are expected to see temperatures around 35°C in the southeastern, southern, and northern regions, while western and southwestern coastal areas, along with higher mountain zones, will hover around 32°C.

    Overnight Conditions and Weekend Outlook

    As night falls, the weather will remain mostly clear, although there may be localised low cloud increases. Thin fog or mist is anticipated late at night and during the early morning, particularly affecting the southern and eastern regions. Winds will continue in a southwesterly to northwesterly direction, becoming locally variable at a strength of 3 Beaufort, with sea conditions remaining smooth to slight. Minimum temperatures are expected to drop to 23°C inland, 24°C along coastal areas, and 21°C in the mountainous regions.

    Looking Ahead

    As the weekend approaches, temperatures are forecasted to stay above seasonal norms on Saturday, but a gradual cooling trend is expected to begin on Sunday. By Monday, temperatures are anticipated to align more closely with the seasonal average.

  • Temperatures Set to Soar to 41°C Before Weekend Cool Down

    Temperatures Set to Soar to 41°C Before Weekend Cool Down

    Temperatures are expected to soar to 41°C in inland areas on Friday, according to the Department of Meteorology. This extreme heat will be accompanied by variable winds, initially light but expected to strengthen later in the day.

    Temperatures: Weather Conditions on Friday

    The Department of Meteorology has reported that Friday’s weather will be predominantly fine, with maximum temperatures reaching 41°C in inland regions. As the day progresses, winds will transition from variable and light at 3 Beaufort scale to a more defined southwest to northwest direction. These winds are anticipated to strengthen, becoming weak to moderate at 3-4 Beaufort scale, and possibly reaching locally strong gusts at 4-5 Beaufort scale.

    Coastal and Regional Temperature Variations

    Temperature variations will be evident across different regions. Coastal areas in the southeastern, southern, and northern parts are expected to reach around 35°C. In contrast, western coastal areas and higher mountainous regions will see cooler temperatures of approximately 32°C.

    Sea Conditions and Wind Patterns

    The sea is forecasted to remain smooth to slight, making it suitable for maritime activities. The light winds at the start of the day will provide a calm environment for sailors and water sports enthusiasts. As the winds pick up later, conditions may become more challenging, especially in open waters.

    Temperature Trends for the Weekend

    Looking ahead, temperatures on Saturday are predicted to show minimal variation from Friday’s highs. However, a notable change is expected on Sunday, when forecasts indicate a gradual cooling trend will commence. This cooling is expected to continue into Monday, offering some relief from the intense heat experienced earlier in the weekend.

    Advice for Residents

    <pResidents are advised to take precautions against the extreme heat, especially those in vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and people with pre-existing health conditions. Staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and wearing appropriate clothing are crucial to preventing heat-related illnesses.

    Long-term Weather Outlook

    While short-term forecasts focus on the immediate heatwave, meteorologists are also looking at longer-term trends. Changes in temperature patterns over the coming weeks could indicate shifts in seasonal weather, potentially impacting agriculture, water supply, and general outdoor activities.

  • Heat warning — Yellow Heat Warning Issued as Temperatures Expected to Reach 40°C

    Heat warning — Yellow Heat Warning Issued as Temperatures Expected to Reach 40°C

    The Department of Meteorology has issued a yellow heat warning, predicting temperatures to soar to 40°C in inland areas and 32°C in mountainous regions.

    • The Department of Meteorology has issued a yellow heat warning, predicting temperatures to soar to 40°C in inland areas and 32°C in mountainous regions.

    This warning takes effect at 12:00 midday on Thursday and will remain in place until 17:00. A seasonal low-pressure system is currently influencing weather patterns across the region, contributing to the high temperatures.

    Heat warning: Weather Conditions for Thursday

    Thursday’s forecast indicates mainly clear skies, although there may be an increase in cloud cover during the early afternoon, particularly in mountainous areas. Early morning could witness localised low cloud and light fog, especially along southern and eastern coastal regions.

    Temperature Trends for the Weekend

    Looking ahead, temperatures are expected to rise gradually over the weekend, with conditions remaining predominantly clear and sunny from Friday through Sunday. Forecasts suggest that Saturday will see a notable increase in temperatures, while Sunday will maintain readings above the seasonal average.