**Fire Erupts in Avgorou Home Following Lightning Strike Amid Severe Storms**
Avgorou, Cyprus – A fire broke out in a home in the Ayios Nikolaos area of Avgorou on Saturday, August 29, 2026, after a lightning strike during severe thunderstorms that affected various parts of Cyprus. The incident led to a temporary power outage in the area, prompting a response from the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC).
According to an EAC spokeswoman, the lightning struck a storage building, igniting a fire and causing disruptions to the electricity supply. While some reports indicated that the lightning may have hit a residential home, this information has not been officially confirmed. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries related to the incident.
EAC crews were promptly dispatched to the scene to assess the damage and restore power. Initial estimates suggested that electricity would be restored within approximately two hours. Residents in the vicinity were advised to remain cautious due to the ongoing severe weather conditions.
The Department of Meteorology had issued an orange warning for severe thunderstorms earlier that day, which was in effect from 10 AM to 7 PM. The warning indicated that intense weather, including heavy rainfall and potential hail, could impact various regions across Cyprus. Rainfall rates were forecasted to reach between 55 to 70 millimeters per hour, raising concerns about flash flooding and other storm-related incidents.
In addition to the fire in Avgorou, reports indicated that around ten storm-related incidents were recorded in the Nicosia district, highlighting the widespread impact of the severe weather across the island. Authorities urged residents to exercise caution and stay informed about weather updates as the storms continued to develop.
As the storm subsided, the focus shifted to recovery efforts and assessing the extent of damage caused by the lightning strikes and heavy rains. Local officials are expected to provide further updates on the situation and any necessary safety measures for residents in affected areas.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with severe weather, particularly during the summer months when thunderstorms are more prevalent in Cyprus. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and prepared for sudden weather changes.
For ongoing updates, residents can follow local news sources and the Department of Meteorology's announcements.