**Storms Force Diversions of 11 Flights as Severe Weather Hits Cyprus**
*29 August 2026*
Severe weather conditions in Cyprus on Saturday led to significant disruptions in air traffic, resulting in the diversion of at least 11 flights. The adverse weather was characterized by heavy rainfall and storms, which made it unsafe for aircraft to approach the island.
The first flight to be diverted was en route from Denmark to Paphos, which was redirected to Rhodes due to the deteriorating weather conditions. Following this, ten additional flights that were scheduled to land at Larnaca Airport between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM were also diverted. These flights were redirected to various locations, including Paphos, Rhodes, and Lebanon.
In addition to the air traffic disruptions, the storms caused several incidents across the island. Reports indicate that lightning struck a man in Kato Drys, who was subsequently taken to the hospital for treatment. Furthermore, the storms resulted in damage to the electricity network, leading to power outages in multiple areas throughout Cyprus.
The heavy rainfall and lightning also sparked various incidents in the Nicosia district, with around ten storm-related occurrences reported. In Avgorou, a fire broke out in a home after lightning struck the area, further compounding the challenges posed by the severe weather.
As emergency services responded to these incidents, the impact of the storms was felt widely across the island, affecting both residents and travelers. Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution as the weather conditions continue to evolve.
The situation highlights the need for preparedness in the face of severe weather, as the island navigates the challenges posed by such natural events.