Cyprus Forests in Crisis: Up to 40% of Cedar Valley Trees Drying Out
Prolonged drought triggers mass tree die-offs and raises wildfire risks across the island.
The consequences of prolonged drought in Cyprus have become increasingly severe.
Speaking on the “Proino Dromologio” programme, the Director of the Department of Forests, Savvas Iezekiel, said that extensive tree die-offs are being recorded, particularly in the Cedar Valley, where 30–40% of the tall, centuries-old cedar trees have dried out.
“Due to the ongoing lack of rainfall, the island’s forests are suffering from severe water deficiency,” Mr Iezekiel noted.
He also warned of a heightened risk of forest fires caused by the accumulation of dry biomass within forested areas. He stressed that the Department of Forests is taking measures to clear vulnerable zones and reduce fire hazards.
