The Civil Defense issued recommendations to prevent risks from storms and tornadoes. Citizens are urged to check drains and protect themselves from floods by limiting travel. During a storm, they should avoid underground areas and flooded roads. Precautions against strong winds and tornadoes include securing objects and protecting one's head. Citizens are advised to be cautious and follow instructions from authorities.
John Martinis is a Greek-American physics professor who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for his contributions to quantum computing. He has collaborated with Google to develop the first commercial quantum computer. His journey includes studying at Berkeley and working at top research institutions. In 2019, his team successfully created a quantum computer capable of solving calculations much faster than classical computers. Currently, he is working with SQC to build a commercial quantum computer.
The 39-year-old suspect involved in the attempted murder of a Ukrainian businessman has been re-arrested for new offenses. The investigation commenced after testimonies linked him to a previous altercation. The suspect allegedly threatened the witness and the victim prior to the murder attempt, demanding money. The police are expected to bring the suspect before the court for a new detention order. The victim remains in the hospital and is providing statements regarding the threats he received.
A father reported his son to the police for threats after he refused to give him money. The son allegedly threatened to kill his father through texts and phone calls. The situation escalated when the son attempted to violently enter his father's home. The father feared for his life, leading to a warrant for the son's arrest. The young man was arrested and brought before the court.
A 17-year-old motorcyclist named Ali Tzalaloutin from Syria tragically lost his life in a fatal accident in Limassol. An autopsy revealed serious cranio-cerebral and bodily injuries. The incident occurred when he failed to stop at a 'STOP' sign and collided with a car. The driver of the car tested negative for drugs and alcohol. Authorities are investigating eyewitness reports suggesting that the motorcyclist was speeding.
The European Union is introducing a new biometric entry/exit system that will replace traditional passport checks. This system will be implemented in 29 Schengen countries and will include digital records of faces and fingerprints. Travelers will need to answer questions upon arrival, and their data will be retained for three years. While the process is expected to be quicker, initial delays may occur during implementation. Cyprus and Ireland will continue with traditional border checks.
OpenAI warns that artificial intelligence might threaten millions of jobs in the near future. A new report identifies 44 professions as most likely to be replaced by AI. The test showed that AI outperformed humans in many cases, particularly in the retail sector. Professions requiring creativity appear to be less vulnerable. However, OpenAI highlights that AI could complement human work and increase productivity.
The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to researchers John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret, and John M. Martinis for the discovery of macroscopic quantum mechanical tunneling and energy quantization in an electric circuit. Their experiment used a superconducting electric circuit that was about one centimeter in size. Previously, these quantum phenomena had only been studied in microscopic systems, but in this case, they were observed on a macroscopic scale. This discovery is significant for understanding quantum physics and its applications. Their research paves the way for new possibilities in physics and technology.
The market for used residential properties in Cyprus shows significant activity in the first half of 2025. Sales of apartments are more than double those of houses, with buyers seeking affordable housing options. Nicosia and Limassol are the most active areas, with prices and sales numbers showing considerable variation. Analyses suggest that this market remains a key pillar for investors. The total sales value of used homes reached €190.3 million.
Starting in October, two key changes will take place in banking transactions. Customers will be able to make instant payments in seconds, at a low cost and with increased security. The regulations implemented will require payments to be completed within 10 seconds. Additionally, a new payee verification service will be introduced to enhance transaction security. These initiatives aim to simplify payments for citizens and businesses.
The Audit Office found that specialist doctors at the Emergency Department of Larnaca Hospital are paid for on-call duty but do not show up when needed. This results in serious revenue losses for the hospital's health authority and poses risks to patient safety. Additionally, there are significant issues with incomplete documentation of medical cases and inadequate storage of medical forms. There is a lack of procedures to ensure quality care. Unions appear to oppose decisions regarding the non-payment of allowances when doctors do not attend.
Early morning gunfire targeted a company's offices in Limassol, causing alarm among the police. The suspects likely fled the scene on a motorcycle, causing damage to the glass entrance of the office. This is the second criminal incident involving the same company, as there was an explosion last July. The police are conducting investigations to locate the perpetrators. The Limassol Homicide Department is looking into the case.
The weather system named 'BARBARA' is approaching Cyprus and is expected to affect the weather on Tuesday night. Today, there will be some clouds with brief rain showers. Tonight, rain will likely intensify with possible thunderstorms and hail. Over the next few days, local rains and thunderstorms are expected, with strong winds. Temperatures are set to drop until Thursday.
The piracy of the cargo ship Arctic Sea in 2009 continues to intrigue international media, being considered one of the most mysterious maritime incidents. Suspicions about a secret cargo of Russian weapons have sparked numerous conspiracy theories. In Larnaca, Alexey Kratzgur, a Russian-Israeli businessman, was arrested, being wanted by Russia through Interpol. His extradition process is underway, with the next court date set for November 14. The case is filled with enigmas and unanswered questions since 2009.
The 2026 elections are approaching, and the major political parties, DISY and AKEL, are vying to keep their percentages above 20%. Polls indicate that the newly established party, Alma, is solidifying its position, while ELAM is securing its place as the third political force. With 230 days left until the elections, DISY and AKEL face significant challenges. Other parties, such as EDEK and DIPA, are fighting for survival. The anticipation for the elections intensifies as the date draws nearer.
Public employees will work a six-hour shift instead of the usual eight, if they meet the criteria for reduced working hours. This regulation aims to improve the balance between professional and family life. The reduction in working hours will also lead to a proportional decrease in salaries. However, employees on reduced hours will not be affected in terms of promotions and pension benefits. Eligible individuals include parents of minors, caregivers, and employees with disabilities or serious health issues.
The Justice Ministry is preparing changes to the legislation governing protests following concerns raised by the OSCE. The discussion in Parliament became heated due to recent incidents between the police and protesters. The Minister of Justice expressed openness to dialogue regarding potential modifications. The Commissioner of Legislation highlighted 10-15 points that need attention. However, it was emphasized that the philosophy of the law has not changed.
There is concern in the agricultural sector following the Department of Agriculture's announcement of inspections regarding reusable packaging boxes for agricultural products. Many boxes are circulating without belonging to their legal owners, causing financial losses for businesses. Traders suggest removing three million boxes from circulation with compensation. The Troodos Producers Association calls for boxes to be returned to their owners and for a recycling system to be established. The law imposes administrative fines for violations.
The European Union activated the Earth observation program 'Copernicus' after the wildfire in the mountainous Limassol, on July 26, 2025, while the fire was still ongoing. The information and maps from the program were not utilized in time, raising concerns. Interior Minister Konstantinos Ioannou explained the process of activating the program, stating that the Civil Defense must submit a request for map provision. This delay raises questions about the efficiency of the system in emergency situations. The informative role of 'Copernicus' is critical for managing such events.
The Ministry of Justice is introducing therapeutic programs for offenders of sexual crimes and tightening oversight of released convicts. The 2026 budget includes measures to enhance police presence and citizen safety. Economic investigations are being intensified to identify illicit wealth. While Cyprus is considered a low-risk country for terrorism, its geographic position brings challenges. At the same time, efforts are being made to prevent and raise awareness regarding crime.
A significant meeting will take place tomorrow at the Supreme Court regarding the oversight of the Attorney General's decisions. The Minister of Justice, the Attorney General, and the President of the Supreme Court will discuss the format of a new bill. The oversight of decisions will occur in two levels, depending on the severity of the case. Victims and their heirs will have the right to contest the decisions of the Public Prosecutor General. All cases concerning felonies will be reviewed by a judge from the Supreme Court.
State hospitals are facing the risk of a new crisis due to disagreements between doctors and the Health Services Organization regarding financial incentives. The president of the Cyprus Government Doctors' Union, Sotiris Koumas, emphasized that there is no agreement with the latest proposals from the HSO. Doctors are still waiting for the fulfillment of previous agreements on incentives for 2023-2024. The dialogue was supposed to be completed before the summer, but has been extended. The situation remains uncertain as the processes are not progressing.