Although it is expected to get cooler from Thursday, the authorities have reminded vulnerable members of the population—and all those working outdoors—to take particular care as inland temperatures climbed to 42°C.
Temperatures on the coast on Wednesday rose to 38°C in the east, 36°C in the south and around 33°C in the west and north and in the mountains.
The Meteorological Department’s official forecast predicts nighttime temperatures to drop to 26°C inland and on the east coast, 25°C on the south coast, 23°C on the west and north coasts and 22°C in the mountains.
The forecast for Thursday predicts slightly cooler highs of 40°C inland, 38°C on the south and east coasts, 34°C on the north coast, 33°C on the south coast and 32°C in the mountains.
Temperatures are anticipated to fall further on Friday and Saturday, which will be felt to a greater degree inland and in the mountains.
But, the respite will be short as they are anticipated to begin to rise slightly again from Sunday.
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The average maximum temperatures for this time of year—which is statistically the hottest in Cyprus– are 38°C inland, 31°C-33°C on the coasts and 28°C-29°C in the mountains.
On Sunday July 2, temperatures rose to a sweltering 45°C inland, the hottest July day on record in Cyprus.
The heat this summer also contributed to the deaths of three elderly people with chronic health problems and resulted in at least another seven being admitted to hospital.
The general public and vulnerable members in particular, including the elderly, ailing, pregnant women and young children and babies, are advised to take particular care.
According to the Health Ministry this includes avoiding spending time in the sun particularly during the hottest times of the day, avoiding anything other than very light exercise, wearing light and loose clothing, and wearing a hat and sunglasses when out and about.
People should also a void alcohol, caffeinated drinks including coffee, and heavy, fatty foods, instead selecting light foods including fruit and vegetables, and drinking plenty of water.
Frequent showers can help cool you down while fans and air-conditioning should be used during the hottest times of the day and windows left open at night.
Don’t forget to ensure your pets have adequate shelter and round-the-clock access to fresh water. You may also like to leave out water for strays.
The current hot weather has also prompted the Forestry Department to remind people to take care and avoid any behavior that could lead to a fire breaking out, including throwing cigarette butts from car windows.
Care should also be taken to ensure outdoor machinery is not letting off sparks, the Forestry Department warns.
Anyone who spots a fire in the countryside should immediately notify their nearest Forestry Station or contact the Forestry Department’s hotline on 1407 or the general emergency number 112.