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The Republic of Cyprus, as an island nation geographically situated in the Middle East with low levels of rainfall, is predicted to experience rises in temperature (along with other negative effects of climate change) at a swifter rate than many other areas of the planet.

Historic climate change
Due to location, Cyprus has always enjoyed an unusually high number of sunny days, with the sun shining for an annual average of 75% of daylight hours.

The climate has changed significantly over the 20th century. Measurements taken in the capial city of Nicosia show an increase in average temperature from 18.9°C at the beginning of the 20th century, to 19.7°C at its end, an increase of 0.8°C. According to the Metereological Service, rainfall has also declined at a rate of 1mm per year over the 20th century. Deep water temperatures have also increased by 0.12 C-change between 1959 and 1989.

Water impact
Cyprus is situated in the Eastern Mediterranean, which Zacharis describes as "amongst the geographic areas that are most vulnerable to climate change." Because of the short residence time of waters, the Mediterranean Sea is considered a hot-spot for climate change effects. According to climate projections, the Mediterranean Sea could become warmer. The decrease in precipitation over the region could lead to more evaporation ultimately increasing the Mediterranean Sea salinity. Because of the changes in temperature and salinity, the Mediterranean Sea may become more stratified by the end of the 21st century, with notable consequences on water circulation and biogeochemistry.

Land impact
Projected increases in temperature range between a minimum increase of 3.6°C and 5°C by the end of the century. The number of very hot days on the island is projected to increase by more than two additional weeks per year, with the likely effect of creating an additional 9 days without rainfall per year.