Following the series of heavy rains over the past few days, Minister of Agriculture, Natural Resources & Environment Costas Themistocleous speaking during a press conference stated that the “good weather” has been extremely beneficial to the country. The much needed water is at last trickling through to the dams which at present are holding 7.4% of their capacity compared to 7.1% the same period last year, equalling around 20 million cubic metres of water compared to 16 million the corresponding period in 2000.

During October, November and for December so far, rainfall levels are around average or above, with more heavy rain predicted for the next few days. November rainfall exceeded the average for the month by 8%, whilst for the first two days of December rainfall measured was over 64% of the average.

Mr. Themistocleous stated that in money terms, the water collected so far equals millions of pounds for the country, whilst cost of damages caused by floods to agriculture are much less. Some agricultural produce is insured through the Agricultural Insurance Organisation (OGA) against such damage or loss.