The Cyprus Department of Meteorology issued an orange warning for extreme high temperatures on Saturday, expected to reach around 43 degrees Celsius inland and 32 degrees in higher mountainous areas.
The warning is valid from 11:00 until 17:00 local time.
For Friday evening (21:00) to Saturday morning (9:00) the warning remains at yellow level with the minimum temperature expected to fall around 26 degrees Celsius over inland, south and east coasts and 25 degrees to the west coast.
Meanwhile, the risk of explosion and spreading of forest fires remains on “red alert” for Saturday, the Department of Forests said.
It is also noted that lighting a fire without a permit is prohibited and that it constitutes an offence which, according to the Forestry Law of 2012, is punishable by imprisonment of up to 10 years or a fine of up to €50,000 or both penalties together and according to the Fire Prevention in the Countryside Law of 1988 up to 5 years or with a fine of up to €20,000 or both penalties together.
The lighting of a fire, for preparing food, is only allowed in the grills of the designated picnic areas.
The Department has issued a strong appeal to the public to exercise heightened caution during outings and to avoid activities that could potentially cause fires. This includes refraining from using tools or agricultural machinery that generate heat, sparks, or flames, such as electric saws, welding equipment, and electric welders.
If members of the public observe any smoke or fire, they are urged to contact the Department of Forests at 1407 or the Fire Service at 112 immediately.