21 Feb 2022 | 06:20 PM UTC
Iceland: Adverse weather forecast nationwide through at least Feb. 22
Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and snowstorms forecast across Iceland through Feb. 22. Possible transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Storms bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and snowstorms are forecast across Iceland through at least Feb. 22.
As of Feb. 21, the Icelandic Meteorological Office has issued the following weather warnings across the country:
Red severe gale or storm with heavy precipitation warnings (the highest level on a four-tier scale): for the Capital, South Iceland, and Faxafloi regions. Winds of up to 108 kph (67 mph) with snow are forecast in these areas.
Orange warnings for severe gales and heavy precipitation: for the rest of Iceland.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming days.
The strong winds could lead to downed power lines and consequent power outages, as well as damage from flying debris. Strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow, causing poor visibility and difficult travel conditions.
Transport
The severe weather will likely cause ground transport disruptions in some affected parts of the country. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are likely on secondary and rural roadways in affected areas as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become hazardous. Gusty winds may topple high-profile vehicles in some affected areas. Hazardous weather conditions might also cause flight delays and cancellations at airports across Iceland over the coming hours and days, including Keflavik Airport (KEF).
Advice
Confirm flights. Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through affected areas. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
