Heavy rains and floods in Cyprus: hundreds of homes underwater, schools closed, authorities urge people to stay indoors

The severe rains on the island have caused widespread flooding and serious disruptions across several regions. Gönyeli, Lefkoşa, Boğazköy, Dikmen, Kanlıköy, Pınarbaşı, Dağyolu and surrounding areas were affected by overflowing rivers and flooded roads. Hundreds of homes, shops and cars ended up underwater, and traffic on several routes came to a complete halt.

Around twenty people trapped in cars and houses were rescued and taken to safe locations.

According to authorities, municipal, police, fire service and Civil Defence teams have been deployed to deal with the aftermath of the disaster. A crisis centre has been set up in Gönyeli–Alayköy, and some residents whose homes were flooded are being temporarily accommodated in hotels and student dormitories. There are also reports of rescued individuals being taken to hospitals — their lives are not in danger.

The floods have also hit the capital. Key parts of the road network in Lefkoşa, including the hospital roundabout area and access roads to Dr. Burhan Nalbantoğlu Hospital, were submerged. To prevent the river from overflowing, emergency teams reinforced the banks with temporary earth and gravel embankments. Hundreds of Lefkoşa municipal employees are working in intensified mode, and residents are being asked to avoid going outdoors unless absolutely necessary.

Due to the hazardous conditions, the Ministry of Education has declared an unscheduled day off: schools are closed today. The Council of Ministers held an emergency meeting, agreeing on measures for accommodating affected residents, ensuring 24/7 operation of services and assessing the damage. If needed, citizens will be temporarily relocated to nearby hotels in coordination with municipalities and the Civil Defence Service.

Meteorologists warn that the risk of heavy rain and new flooding will persist at least until the evening. The country’s Chief Mufti has also addressed residents, offering those who cannot reach their homes or are stranded on the way temporary shelter in nearby mosques.