Heatwave continues as Cyprus remains on "red alert" for fires

10:41 - 20 July 2023

Current Affairs

Cyprus' Met Office issued a yellow warning for “extreme high temperature” on 20 July, while the risk of forest fires erupting will remain at “Red Alert”, the Department of Forestry said in a press release.

The Forestry Department said the lighting of fire without a permit is prohibited and constitutes an offence which, according to the Law on Forests could lead to imprisonment of up to 10 years or a fine of up to €50,000 or both while the Prevention of Fires in the Countryside Law, provides for up to 5 years imprisonment or a fine of up to €20,000, or both.

Lighting a fire for food preparation is only allowed in the barbecue areas of picnic sites, it said.

The Department has also called on the public to be especially careful during their outings, to avoid actions and activities that are likely to cause a fire, such as the use of tools or agricultural machinery that produce heat, sparks or flame, such as angle grinders, and welding.

Members of the public are asked in case they notice smoke or fire to "immediately" call 1407 (Forestry Department) or 112 (Fire Service).

Meanwhile, Cyprus’ Department of Meteorology issued a yellow warning for “extreme high temperature”.

The warning is in effect for 20 July from 11:00 until 18:00.

According to the warning, the maximum temperature is expected to reach around 41 degrees Celsius inland and around 33 degrees Celsius in the higher mountainous areas.

Heatwave continues as Cyprus remains on "red alert" for fires

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