CYPRUS: Heatwave as Cypriots shift into holiday mode

An extreme weather warning was issued for Wednesday as Cypriots headed for the beach and cooler mountains for the August 15 national holiday.

The capital Nicosia was deserted as nearly all businesses and shops on the island are closed for the holiday while others are taking a longer August break.

Police are out in numbers to control traffic flows to and from coastal resorts and manage increased traffic in the Troodos mountain range.

The Cyprus Department of Meteorology has issued an extreme high temperature warning for August 15.

According to the yellow awareness level warning that was issued, the maximum temperature will rise to around 40 degrees Celsius inland. Vulnerable groups and young children are advised to stay out of the midday sun until the afternoon.

Cyprus is unlikely to get back to normal until later next week as most Cypriots book their vacation for this time of the year to holiday either at home or abroad.