A notable earthquake occurred near Paphos, with its epicenter 30 km west of the city. The earthquake was recorded at a magnitude of 4.4 on the Richter scale and was felt around 20:22. Residents of the area were alarmed, but no serious damages have been reported. Authorities are monitoring the situation.
A fire broke out in a house in Limassol, with firefighters working to extinguish it. The house suffered extensive damage, and part of the roof collapsed, spreading to an adjacent property. Fortunately, a resident was able to exit safely before the firefighters arrived. The causes of the fire remain unclear.
A 52-year-old man succumbed to severe burns sustained in a fire at an abandoned house in Nicosia. The man, from Greece, had been hospitalized in critical condition. The fire broke out on the night of December 21, 2024, and it seems he lived there with two others who were not injured. The police are investigating the incident.
This Christmas, the weather will be rainy due to a low pressure system named 'Elena'. Local rain and isolated thunderstorms are expected, especially in mountainous and western areas. There's a possibility of sleet or snow at the highest peaks of Troodos. Temperatures will range from around 8 to 21 degrees depending on the location.
President Christodoulides has decided to remove the portrait of Makarios from the Presidential office. This means the portrait will no longer be present during the President's meetings. Instead, a painting inspired by Cyprus's struggles has been placed. This change highlights the importance of historical memory and political representation.
Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis emphasizes that any agreement between Turkey and Syria must be based on international law, particularly customary international law of the sea. He mentions that the Republic of Cyprus has rights in the area, and any challenge to these rights will be seen as a violation of international law. Furthermore, he noted that the Republic of Cyprus will take all appropriate measures at international and European levels. President Christodoulides has informed EU leaders about the Turkish maneuvers to secure support.
Greek diplomatic sources expressed concerns regarding the Turkish minister's statements about an imminent agreement on the delimitation of the EEZ with Syria. They emphasize that no one has the right to enter into such agreements due to the transitional situation in Syria. Greece highlights the need for vigilance and cooperation with Cyprus and other neighboring countries within the framework of the European Union. These countries stress the importance of adhering to legality in matters of border delimitation.
The weather disturbance 'Elena' is affecting areas of Limassol with heavy rainfall, particularly in Pissouri and Saitta. Drivers are advised to be careful and maintain distance. Significant rain and possible storms are expected tomorrow, on Christmas Day, with potential snowfall in the mountains. Temperatures will range from 8 to 20 degrees, depending on the area.
Turkey is in advanced talks with the new Syrian government to sign an agreement regarding Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ). The Turkish Transport Minister stated that the agreement is part of a broader plan for reconnecting and developing Syria. Additionally, Turkey plans to restore infrastructure in Syria and enhance telecommunications services. Greece is closely monitoring developments due to the potential impact on the region.
Consumer activity peaks on Christmas Eve with a focus on preparing the festive table despite rising prices. Shoppers prioritize essential goods while maintaining the tradition of a bountiful Christmas meal. Supermarkets report increased traffic as consumers seek out deals. Shops will close for the holidays, remaining closed for the next few days.
The Chief of Police, Themistocles Arnaoutis, expressed frustration regarding the illegal guarding of a 49-year-old Swede who escaped from a private hospital. Special Constables are legally designated for immigration-related duties, not for other responsibilities. The police are investigating why a specific officer violated regulations. It is maintained that their appointments are solely for managing immigration flows.
A 49-year-old Swedish fugitive was recaptured after escaping from a guarded clinic in Cyprus. He was found at a construction site, and his health condition was deemed stable. He had requested to be examined by a specific private doctor before his escape. Authorities are investigating how he arrived in Cyprus and the circumstances surrounding his security detail.
The weather system Elena is expected to bring rain, snow, and cold temperatures to Cyprus on Christmas Day. The day will start cloudy with local rains and possible thunderstorms. Temperatures will range around 17 degrees in the interior and 7 degrees in the mountains. On Thursday and Friday, the weather will mostly remain cloudy with local rains.
A house in Limassol caught fire, trapping the occupants inside. The Fire Service responded quickly with several vehicles and an ambulance. The residents appear to have been rescued, but at least three individuals are being taken to the hospital. The cause of the fire is still unknown.
Christmas Eve is the busiest shopping day of the year, with increased consumer activity, particularly in meat and various goods. Supermarkets are offering lower meat prices compared to local butcher shops. There has also been a rise in salad prices, while the total cost for the Christmas table has increased by 11.79% compared to last year. These trends highlight the challenges consumers face during the holiday season.
The Fiscal Council's report for 2024 presents a positive outlook for the Cypriot economy, though with structural weaknesses that need attention. The economy shows continuous fiscal surpluses, reduced public debt, and broad-based growth. However, concerns arise from rising inelastic expenditures and political pressures for increasing state spending. A new development strategy is necessary as the relationship with the broader European economy remains challenged by low growth rates.
In the last five years, 16 detainees have escaped from various law enforcement facilities. The recent escape of a Swedish detainee brought attention to the shortcomings in police security measures. The main reasons for these escapes include relaxed security and insufficient policing. There is a call for stricter procedures for guarding and securing detention facilities.
Nutritionist Eleni Andreou provides tips on how to enjoy the holiday season without gaining extra weight. She advises maintaining regular meals before festivities, controlling alcohol consumption, and the importance of breakfast. Eating small meals throughout the day helps prevent overeating. Lastly, she emphasizes that making post-holiday diet promises is not the best approach.
The Minister of Transport is preparing a decree regarding the recalls of Takata airbags, effective from February 3rd. Concerns have been raised about the lack of response from car distributors regarding vehicles with defective airbags. The Department of Road Transport is collaborating with distributors to find solutions and ensure passenger safety. The ongoing debate concerns whether immobilization of recalled vehicles will be mandatory.
Four years after a photo showed a Turkish journalist stepping on a missing person's skull, two remains of missing Greek Cypriots were found. Expert Odysseas Christou analyzed the photos, linking them to the location and events surrounding Turkish bombings in 1974. The photos sparked reactions, while the information about the remains was confirmed by authorities. Notably, one of the missing identified was the commander of a unit.
Hospitals in Cyprus are facing an increased number of patients due to seasonal infections caused by three primary viruses. Influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and coronavirus have led to a significant rise in hospital admissions. Vulnerable groups, particularly young children and the elderly, are most affected by these infections. The situation is serious, with all medical departments experiencing pressure and delays in patient care.