A severe storm has swept across parts of Cyprus, resulting in one fatality and posing a threat to several boats off the island's southeastern coast, authorities reported.
The storm caused significant disruptions to air travel at the country's two main airports.
According to Cyprus' public broadcaster "RIK," which cited police sources, high waves pushed a boat onto rocks, causing it to sink. The body of the boat's captain was found on a rocky part of the coast in the "Cape Greco" area.
A nearby person was rescued by a Cyprus civil defense helicopter from the turbulent sea, according to local media.
The storm disrupted flight operations at Larnaca and Paphos airports, with 11 flights redirected to other airports on Saturday, as stated by "Hermes Airports," the company operating both airports.
Maria Kouropi, the company's director, mentioned that no flights were canceled, and after weather conditions improved, the diverted flights returned to Cyprus.
Inland areas also faced widespread issues, with roads and buildings flooded in various parts of the island. Trees fell, landslides occurred, and power outages were reported.
The fire department received numerous emergency calls concerning the damages, with a spokesperson noting that most calls originated from the area surrounding the capital, Nicosia.
The Cyprus broadcaster also reported that a man was injured by a lightning strike, although his condition was not life-threatening.