The peak of the Perseids will occur on the night of August 12, providing a unique spectacle in the moonless sky. Events will take place in areas like Kyperounda and Amiandos, inviting the public to watch. Astrophysicist Chrysanthos Fakos and Sotiris Savvidis from the AstroVerce Astronomy Club mention that over 100 meteors per hour can be observed. Visitors are advised to bring warm clothing and blankets for comfortable viewing. Additionally, lectures and telescope observations will be held.
The Association of Fuel Retailers expects fuel price reductions by the end of August if international oil prices remain low. Consumers are now refueling their vehicles with smaller amounts. Since July 17, the prices of gasoline and diesel have increased, despite a drop in international oil prices. The average price of unleaded gasoline is around €1.60. Fuel retailers explain that current prices are linked to previous shipments.
The Meteorological Department has issued a new yellow warning for temperature in Cyprus. The warning will be in effect from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Tuesday. The maximum temperature is expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius. Citizens are advised to prepare for the high temperatures. Caution and avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours are recommended.
According to a Forbes list for 2026, Cyprus is one of the best places in the world for retirees. Limassol, Paphos, Tower, and Larnaca stand out as top areas. Forbes evaluates factors such as cost of living, safety, and political stability. Many American retirees choose countries with lower living costs, contributing to the increase in retirees living abroad. Greece is also mentioned with destinations like Athens and Corfu on the same list.
Remedica Limited has initiated a voluntary recall of 115 batches of ten pharmaceutical products. The products are used for various conditions such as cardiovascular issues and neurological disorders. The Pharmaceutical Services assure that there is no need for panic among patients. The recall was prompted by results outside the established stability limits of the products. Patients are encouraged to consult their pharmacists regarding the recall process.
Many citizens in Paphos are expressing complaints about the new process for paying social security for foreign domestic helpers. They state that the payment procedure has become complicated and is not being completed as it used to. There are concerns about potential late fees, even though citizens are keeping to their deadlines. An official source mentioned that connection to the Ariadne system is now required to complete the payment process. Many of those who are complaining may not have registered in the new system.
A 30-year-old father of two children, who were found dead in a car in Xylofagou, will not attend their funeral as per the decision of the senior judge of the British Bases. His request for release was denied, and he remains in custody. The bodies of the children have been with the Bases and will be transported to Bulgaria at the expense of the Cypriot government. The father had left the children unsupervised, and their stepmother was arrested but later released. The details of the court's decision are not publicly known.
The countdown to the reopening of schools has begun, with school directors preparing their institutions. Their responsibilities include visiting the schools and holding meetings with their management teams to discuss needs for the new school year. Educators will likewise return to their duties before students arrive. Participation in seminars organized by the Ministry of Education is mandatory for teachers. Directors are urged to ensure the smooth operation of schools starting from September 1.
Polymedia is one of the fastest-growing areas in Limassol, featuring significant private and public investments. The Verengaria area is becoming an educational hub with new university facilities and student accommodations. However, this development comes with challenges, such as traffic issues and infrastructure needs. The mayor emphasizes the importance of these projects for the municipality's economic autonomy. The strategic goal is to transform Polymedia into a university campus.
Maria Angela Olguin aims to exclude Turkey from the Cyprus peace process. Nicosia disagrees, emphasizing that Turkey should participate in negotiations. Olguin stresses the importance of regular communication between the two leaders and confidence-building measures. The government spokesperson highlights the need for political will from all parties for progress. It is noted that Turkey is not complying with United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Tension between the government and opposition is rising, sparked by President Nikos Christodoulides' use of the term "DISAKEL." Both parties, DISY and AKEL, reacted strongly, stating that they do not want their positions to be conflated. In a dispute over appointments to semi-public boards, both sides accused each other of political maneuvering. Christodoulides emphasized the need to end the practice of nepotism. This confrontation highlights the existing tensions ahead of the 2028 elections.
The political scene is gearing up for the presidential elections in 2028, with strategic moves from candidates like Christodoulides, Dimitriou, and Averof. Election battles require proper preparation and strategies. The potential candidacy of Mayor Andreas with support from AKEL appears to be gaining momentum. Internal developments within the Democratic Party will determine who advances to the second round. The situation remains fluid, and all scenarios are open.
The Environmental Authority has approved the expansion of quarrying activities in Androlykou under strict environmental conditions. The project involves a new quarry for extracting 900,000 cubic meters of limestone to meet the needs of the Paphos district. Although the area is close to protected zones, the expected impacts are minimal and temporary. The companies applying for the project are already active in the area, and the work is expected to last about 2.5 to 3 years. Strict conditions must be followed to minimize impacts on the local fauna and flora.
Nicosia is considering the acquisition of the Jaguar armored fighting vehicle to strengthen the National Guard. The Jaguar offers modern strategic capabilities and significant firepower. Programs for acquiring larger vehicles are expected to commence in 2028. The Jaguars would be integrated as supplementary to the National Guard’s force rather than replacing existing vehicles. Cyprus maintains a tradition of procuring French weapon systems.
The electric interconnection between Greece and Cyprus appears to gain momentum following the agreement signed by ADMIE and Meridiam. The Cypriot government expresses confidence in the project's realization but is awaiting the issuance of a navtex by the Greek government before committing financially. The participation of Cyprus in the equity of Great Sea Interconnector is also being assessed. A study by the European Investment Bank will aid in evaluating the necessary costs and technical challenges. Marine surveys are expected to begin this fall.