The public are being warned about higher levels of dust in the atmosphere across Cyprus. Due to the small size of the particles and the possible adverse effects on human health, the public, and especially vulnerable groups of the population, such as children, patients and the elderly, are urged to avoid open spaces until the phenomenon recedes. The air quality control service is monitoring the situation and taking measurements. Furthermore, workers in open spaces should use the appropriate personal safety measures, and workers who believe the conditions might aggravate their health by the increased concentration of dust should consult their doctor. Farmagusta Gazette 10th February 2017
A thick dust cloud from Syria has settled over parts of Cyprus and is expected to last another day or so. According to the department of labour inspection (DIL), the average hourly concentration of dust particles in the Nicosia district on Monday was almost ten times the normal (547 μg/m³ whereas the maximum acceptable concentration is 50 μg/m³). The unusual weather started at around 2.30pm on the east coast and gradually moved inland over the capital. Visibility in some areas is low and drivers are advised to be extra careful. Groups with respiratory problems are advised to stay indoors. Air traffic to and from the Paphos and Larnaca International Airports will go on as usual, said Hermes Airports spokesman Adamos Aspris, despite the high amount of dust in the atmosphere. Aspris told the Cyprus News Agency that the operations centre in both airports was monitoring the situation closely. ?Up to this moment our flight schedule is performing without any problems. Hermes Operations centre is working closely with the competent authorities to deal with the situation,? he said. Aspris pointed out that the Larnaca Airport was the most affected, with Paphos Airport reporting no problems. The DIL said workers working in open spaces should protect themselves. Cyprus Mail 7th September 2015
