**Rain and Thunderstorms Forecast for Friday Across Cyprus**
Cyprus is set to experience a mix of weather conditions on Friday, with forecasts indicating rain and isolated thunderstorms in various regions, particularly in the afternoon. The day will commence with predominantly clear skies; however, cloud cover is expected to develop as the day progresses, leading to local showers and potential thunderstorms, especially over mountainous areas and some inland regions.
Temperatures on Friday are projected to soar to approximately 37 degrees Celsius in inland areas, while coastal regions will experience milder conditions. Specifically, the west coast is expected to reach around 31 degrees Celsius, with temperatures along other coastal areas averaging 33 degrees Celsius. In the higher elevations, temperatures will be cooler, around 26 degrees Celsius.
The weather will also bring light winds initially, blowing from the south to southwest at a speed of 3 Beaufort. As the day advances, these winds are anticipated to shift to a predominantly southwesterly to northwesterly direction, increasing to between 3 to 4 Beaufort. The sea conditions are expected to remain calm to slightly rough, making it a relatively safe day for maritime activities.
As the afternoon unfolds, the likelihood of thunderstorms may be accompanied by hail, particularly in areas where the storms are most intense. Residents are advised to stay informed about the weather developments, as conditions can change rapidly.
On Friday evening, the weather is expected to clear up, although there may be increased low cloud cover along the coast. As night falls, thin fog or localized fog may form, especially in the early hours of Saturday morning. Overnight temperatures are predicted to drop to about 22 degrees Celsius inland, 23 degrees Celsius along the coast, and a cooler 17 degrees Celsius in the mountainous regions.
Looking ahead to Saturday, the forecast suggests a continuation of unsettled weather, with increased cloud cover expected after midday. This may again lead to isolated rain or thunderstorms, predominantly affecting the mountainous and inland areas.
In contrast, Sunday and Monday are anticipated to bring clearer skies, with temperatures expected to rise further following a relatively stable temperature pattern on Saturday. Currently, temperatures across the island are slightly above the seasonal average, indicating a warm spell for the region.
Residents and visitors in Cyprus are encouraged to prepare for the varied weather conditions, especially those planning outdoor activities. Local authorities and meteorological services will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.