**Fire Service Responds to Flooding and Arson Incidents Following Heavy Rain**
The fire service in Cyprus was called to action on Friday as heavy rainfall affected various regions of the island, leading to flooding in basements of two properties. According to fire service spokesman Andreas Kettis, the incidents occurred in the towns of Paphos and Larnaca.
Kettis reported that firefighters were dispatched to pump water from the affected basements, addressing the immediate concerns of property damage and safety for the residents. The heavy rain that swept across parts of Cyprus created conditions that overwhelmed drainage systems, resulting in water accumulation in lower levels of buildings.
In a separate incident on Friday evening, the fire service was alerted to a car fire in Strovolos, a suburb of Nicosia. However, local residents managed to extinguish the flames before firefighters arrived on the scene. Initial investigations suggest that the fire may have been intentionally set, prompting further inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The combination of adverse weather and the potential for malicious activity highlights the challenges faced by emergency services in maintaining safety and responding effectively to incidents across the island. As the rainy season continues, authorities are urging residents to take precautions to mitigate flooding risks and to report any suspicious activities that could lead to arson or other emergencies.
The fire service remains vigilant and prepared to respond to similar incidents as weather conditions fluctuate in the coming days.