The first serious disruption caused by severe weather has been reported in Paphos, where a river has overflowed, rendering the road connecting Peyia with Lara unsuitable for vehicle traffic.
According to the authorities, the road has been affected by rising water levels, prompting warnings to motorists as adverse weather conditions continue to affect the island.
Heavy rainfall is also affecting the Pissouri area, where police have warned of reduced visibility on the road network. Dense fog in the Palaichori area has further restricted visibility, prompting calls for drivers to exercise caution.
Power cuts reported across Paphos
Several areas of Paphos are experiencing power cuts amid torrential rain and strong winds.
The affected areas include Kato Arodes, Ineia, Acheleia, Kathikas and Peyia.
Motorists have been urged to drive carefully, reduce their speed, maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead and keep their headlights on.
CY Alert warnings issued as orange alert remains in force
Civil Defence has sent precautionary messages through the CY Alert system, informing residents of an orange weather warning in force from 3pm on Wednesday until 5am on Thursday.
The messages were sent in both Greek and English to districts considered to face the greatest risk from the severe weather.
According to Civil Defence, a low-pressure system is affecting the region, with forecasts warning of severe thunderstorms, strong wind gusts and possible hail.
Paphos, Limassol and Larnaca in focus
The western and southern coastal areas are expected to experience some of the most intense weather conditions.
Speaking earlier to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), meteorological officer Andreas Chrysanthou said the bad weather was expected to affect the whole of Cyprus, with Paphos, Limassol and Larnaca likely to bear the brunt of the heaviest rainfall and thunderstorms.
He noted that the intensity and duration of the weather would vary between areas, with severe thunderstorms expected to occur in isolated locations.
Rain and isolated thunderstorms are also forecast for Nicosia, although conditions there are expected to be milder than in the western and southern coastal districts.
Residents urged to follow safety advice
Civil Defence has issued self-protection guidance, urging the public to take appropriate precautions depending on their location and to monitor official announcements for further updates.
With heavy rain, strong winds and thunderstorms forecast across the island, motorists are advised to remain alert, avoid roads affected by flooding and follow instructions issued by the authorities.
