A fire broke out on Monday night at a workshop of the school board at Lanitio, causing disturbance due to smoke. The fire damaged tools and machinery, and firefighting forces responded promptly. The President of the School Board was also on-site. So far, there have been no signs of foul play.
The wildfire in Limassol had tragic consequences, resulting in two deaths and significant damage. Flames reached heights of 30 meters and burned 10 to 11 square kilometers per hour. The Director of the Forestry Department described the fire as a 'phantom' due to its rapid and powerful spread. Fighting the fire required a superhuman effort because of the extreme temperatures and weather conditions.
The Civil Defense is facing criticism for its response during the devastating fire in the Mountainous Limassol. However, there are recognitions for volunteers who worked hard to save people and animals. A volunteer describes rescuing a woman from the flames, while others assisted individuals in need of medical or other support. The volunteers also rescued elderly people and children, demonstrating remarkable courage and humanity.
In KoiLani, Limassol, a citizen lit a fire to burn waste materials despite the area still recovering from a recent wildfire. The firefighters responded quickly and extinguished the fire. The homeowner is expected to face legal consequences. This incident raises concerns due to the area's sensitivity.
The mayor of Vouni, Matthaios Protopapas, attributed the damage from the fire to a lack of organization. He pointed out that the fire trucks could not replenish water due to a power outage. Despite previous fires, no preventive measures were taken, and 35 houses have been completely destroyed. The community is determined to recover through solidarity and a sense of pride.
The Synodal Court of the Church of Cyprus has defrocked two clerics from the Holy Metropolis of Tamasos for ethical misconduct. The clerics, Barnabas and Raphael, were reported by monks from the Monastery of Osiou Abbakoum. The Court's decision emphasized a policy of non-discrimination in imposing penalties. Barnabas played a key role in revealing the scandal related to the monks of the Monastery.
A poignant moment was captured during the fire in Limassol, where volunteers helped an elderly resident evacuate his home as flames surrounded it. The Civil Defense volunteers made extraordinary efforts to save him. The image illustrates their selfless commitment during critical situations. The display of solidarity and rescue was impressive.
Dr. Marios Kyriacou warns about scams exploiting the pain of wildfire victims in Limassol. Scammers are asking unsuspecting citizens to participate in online games, promising that their earnings will go to the victims. The doctor urges the public to be cautious and avoid sending money to fake platforms. He highlights the characteristics of these scams to protect citizens.
The extremely high temperatures have caused serious cases of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, with six people hospitalized. Two of these patients are elderly and require monitoring, while four others are being treated for concerning symptoms. There has been an increase in cases of minor injuries and sun-related issues, especially at beaches. Experts warn of the risks for the elderly and encourage their care during the heatwave.
Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis announced that reports are being prepared by the relevant services to evaluate the government's actions. He emphasized the need to highlight gaps and weaknesses during the evacuation and protection of human life amidst recent wildfires. He also stated that no one can be satisfied with the results, with the primary focus being on supporting the affected individuals. Letymbiotis assured that the state machinery is functioning properly, regardless of the presence of specific individuals.
In the Limassol area, the police conducted patrols and arrested four individuals for various offenses. During checks, drugs and burglary tools were found in vehicles. Two of the arrestees were released, while the other two are expected to appear in court for remand. The investigation continues by the Lania Police Station.
The deputy mayors of Akamas and Poleos Chrysochous have raised serious allegations about the use of double-cabin vehicles equipped with firefighting materials for other tasks. These vehicles, which have proven effective in fire response, are now being used for different purposes. The allegations also include the removal of firefighting equipment that was partially funded by the regional administration. The deputy mayors express concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the firefighting services.
The restoration of electricity in several communities in Limassol will take several days due to the recent wildfire. The Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) is working tirelessly under adverse weather conditions and has already begun addressing the damages. Sufficient poles and transformers have been replaced, aided by personnel from other areas. The EAC also has a stock of materials available for potential future needs.
The amount of new loans provided by banks has significantly increased, reaching €1.42 billion in the first half of 2025. Banks feel more secure in granting loans, particularly mortgages, as financing indicators show improvement. The debt-to-income service ratio has decreased, indicating that new borrowers are in a better position to repay their loans. This trend enhances the resilience of the banking system.
The increasing use of mobile devices leads to a significant amount of waste from old equipment. According to a Eurostat survey, Cypriots prefer to keep their old phones rather than recycle them. Only 8% of Cypriots recycled their old phones, while 67% kept them at home. Higher recycling rates are observed in countries like Greece and the Czech Republic.
Feeding stray cats in Cyprus has become a controversial issue with increasing reports of destruction of feeding areas. The president of the Argos Shelter accuses the police of ignoring the law and failing to investigate complaints. The amended Law 175(I)/2020 defines conditions for the protection of animals, yet the police seem to misinterpret it. Volunteers face harassment and violent reactions from citizens.
Illegal fishing in Larnaca threatens Marine Protected Areas, with stakeholders warning that it impacts the economic viability of tourism investments. The Underwater Centers Association is calling for stricter policing and fines for illegal fishermen. Divers report that illegal fishermen are visible even from the shore. Local authorities continue to invest in improving the areas, but inaction remains a serious issue.
Cyprus is taking a significant step towards its digital transformation by approving the installation of the Blue Submarine Cable System. This cable will connect the country with other Mediterranean states, turning it into a regional data hub. The process involves strict regulations and zero environmental impact measures. Experts predict that the project will reduce data access costs and enhance Cyprus's connectivity.
Today, temperatures are expected to reach 40-41 degrees Celsius with high humidity, causing serious health issues, particularly for the elderly and those with chronic conditions. Slight decreases in temperature are expected over the next few days, but the humid conditions will persist. Meanwhile, the fire risk is at its highest level, prompting authorities to remain fully alert. The health status of several individuals hospitalized due to heat exhaustion is considered serious.
In the fire-stricken areas of Limassol, the images of devastation are heart-wrenching. However, amid this tragedy, humanity shines through as citizens and volunteers come together to help. The support for the affected individuals is remarkable, with various organizations delivering food and essential supplies. Despite the tragic stories, locals and volunteers demonstrate their solidarity with those who have lost everything.