June 16th 2024.
Wildfires have been wreaking havoc in Cyprus, causing destruction and chaos as record-breaking heatwaves sweep through the island. The intense heat, with temperatures reaching a scorching 40°C, has proven to be deadly, claiming the lives of two elderly individuals who suffered from heatstroke. This heartbreaking news has shocked the nation, as Cyprus is known for its beautiful golden beaches and crystal blue waters, attracting tourists seeking a summer escape.
The current heatwave has also affected neighboring countries such as Greece and Turkey, with temperatures soaring and causing harm. In Cyprus, an 84-year-old woman tragically passed away just a day after being admitted to the hospital, while a 91-year-old woman lost her life on the same day. Three other elderly patients remain in serious condition, highlighting the severity of the situation. Hospitals have been overwhelmed with patients suffering from heat exhaustion, with one woman even experiencing two cardiac arrests on her way to the hospital.
The government spokesperson revealed that the cause of the cardiac arrest was heatstroke, a condition where the body's core temperature rises above 37.5°C. Shockingly, this deadly condition claims the lives of around 2,000 people in England alone each year. In Cyprus, the heat has been relentless, with temperatures reaching a sweltering 40°C consistently throughout the week. The island has even issued its first red alert for extreme heat this summer, a record for the month of June.
As if the heat wasn't enough, wildfires have also emerged in various parts of the island, adding to the chaos and distress. The strong winds have made it challenging for firefighters to contain the flames, which have already burned through a massive 3.2 square kilometer area of forest in the capital city, Nicosia. The flames have even threatened to destroy a whole village, causing nearly 50 people to evacuate from their homes in Paphos, located 96km away on the southwest coast.
The situation has become so dire that Greece and Jordan have offered their support, sending in aircraft to assist the firefighters in their efforts to suppress the flames. The temperatures, which are approximately 10 degrees higher than usual for this time of year, have made it extremely difficult for the firefighters to control the situation. The whole nation is holding its breath, hoping for the firefighters to overcome this devastating crisis and bring an end to the destruction caused by the wildfires.
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