**Orange Weather Warning Issued as Temperatures Expected to Soar to 44 Degrees Celsius**
An orange weather warning has been issued for Thursday, signaling extreme high temperatures across Cyprus, with forecasts predicting a peak of 44 degrees Celsius. The alert will be in effect from 12 PM to 5 PM, during which time residents are advised to take precautions against the heat.
In addition to the scorching temperatures expected in lowland areas, mountainous regions are anticipated to experience temperatures around 33 degrees Celsius. This significant rise in temperature has prompted the Labour Inspection Department to consider suspending outdoor work during the hottest hours of the day.
The department typically enforces a halt on “all outdoor heavy- and medium-duty work” when such warnings are in place. This includes activities involving the transport or delivery of goods using two-wheeled vehicles. Areas that fall under this suspension are generally those located more than 10 kilometers from the coast and at altitudes below 300 meters above sea level, as well as all regions above 1,150 meters.
While heavy and medium-duty tasks will be suspended, the department allows for what it categorizes as “light work” to continue. This includes office work, tasks with light tools, cleaning, and routine driving. Moderate work, which encompasses activities such as fencing, concreting, bricklaying, plastering, painting, flooring, tiling, carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and asphalt paving, is also permitted during the heat of the day.
For workers in areas not affected by the orange weather warning, the Labour Inspection Department encourages them to adjust their schedules and take necessary precautions to mitigate heat stress. Recommendations include organizing frequent short breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments, ensuring access to cool drinking water, and wearing appropriate clothing such as light, breathable fabrics and protective headgear.
As the island prepares for this heatwave, residents are urged to stay informed about the weather conditions and to take necessary steps to protect themselves from the potential health risks associated with extreme heat.