**Afternoon Showers and Thunderstorms Expected for the Remainder of the Week**
Cyprus is set to experience a shift in weather patterns as the week progresses, with Friday marking the beginning of a series of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. The day is expected to start off primarily clear, but clouds will develop in the afternoon, leading to scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms, particularly in the mountainous regions, inland areas, and to the east.
Meteorological forecasts indicate that these afternoon storms may bring with them the possibility of hailstones, adding an element of unpredictability to the weather. Winds throughout the day will be blowing from the southwest to northwest, initially presenting as a gentle to moderate breeze of 3 to 4 Beaufort. However, as the afternoon unfolds, winds are anticipated to strengthen to a fresh breeze of 5 Beaufort, contributing to moderate sea conditions.
Temperature readings for Friday are projected to reach 39°C inland, while coastal areas will see temperatures around 34°C. The highest mountains are expected to remain cooler, with temperatures around 30°C. As the day transitions into night, cloud cover is expected to increase, bringing isolated showers. The evening will see a gentle katabatic breeze of 3 Beaufort over slightly choppy seas. Nighttime temperatures are predicted to drop to 21°C inland, 23°C along the coast, and 17°C in the mountainous regions.
Looking ahead to Saturday, the weather is forecasted to remain cloudy, with rain and thunderstorms expected throughout the day. Some areas may experience heavy and prolonged rainfall, which could lead to localized flooding in susceptible regions. This shift in weather is anticipated to result in a noticeable drop in temperatures, bringing them below the seasonal average.
Sunday and Monday are expected to start off clear in the morning, but as the afternoons approach, rain and possible thunderstorms are forecasted, particularly in the mountains and inland areas. By Monday, temperatures are expected to gradually return to seasonal averages, providing some relief after the cooler conditions of Saturday.
Residents and visitors in Cyprus are advised to stay informed about the evolving weather conditions, particularly those in areas prone to thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. As always, it is prudent to take necessary precautions during adverse weather events to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.