07 Feb 2022 | 08:09 AM UTC
Iceland: Adverse weather forecast nationwide through at least Feb. 9
Strong winds, blizzards, and snowstorms forecast across Iceland through at least Feb. 9. Transport disruptions ongoing.
Event
Strong winds, blizzards, and snowstorms are forecast across Iceland through at least Feb. 9. Many roads are closed, and authorities warn that flight disruptions are possible at Keflavik Airport (KEF) due to strong winds and heavy snow. As of early Feb. 7, the Icelandic Meteorological Office has issued red severe gale or storm and blizzard warnings (the highest level on a four-tier scale) for the Capital, western South, Southern Peninsula, and most of the Western Region. Winds of up to 108 kph (67 mph) with snow are forecast in these areas. Orange warnings for blizzard conditions and severe gales have been issued for the rest of Iceland. A high danger (second-highest level on a five-tier scale) for avalanches are in place for the Northern Westfjords, Southwest corner, and Trollaskagi. 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.
Authorities have closed most of the roads in the Southern Peninsula, Capital Region, and far western Southern Region. All major routes in Westfjords are closed or impassable, while the mountain roads are closed in the Eastern, Northeastern, Northwestern, and Western regions. Eyjafjorour is impassable, while Siglufjaroarvegur and Olafsfjaroarmuli roads are closed due to the risk of avalanches. Hazardous weather conditions might also cause further flight delays and cancellations at regional airports over the coming hours and days.
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.
