Iceland: Adverse weather forecast nationwide Oct. 9-10

Event

Strong winds and snow showers are forecast across Iceland Oct. 9-10. Winds of up to 101 kph (63 mph) are possible, as well as blowing snow and sleet in coastal areas. Temperatures could also drop to around freezing (0 C, 32 F) in some areas. The adverse weather conditions will likely cause hazardous travel conditions, including icy roads and reduced visibility, especially in mountainous areas. Strong winds could cause property damage.

As of Oct. 7, the Icelandic Meteorological Office has issued the following weather warnings across the country Oct. 9-10:

• Orange warnings for gales with snow or sleet(the second-highest level on a three-tier scale): Across central, eastern, northeastern, and northern regions.

• Yellow warnings for gales: Across the rest of Iceland.

• Yellow warnings for snowfall: Northwestern regions.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
The storm could produce rounds of heavy precipitation (including rain, sleet, and snow), strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity across Iceland. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

Transport
The severe weather will likely cause ground transport disruptions in some affected parts of the country. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

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).

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.

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.

Resources

Icelandic Meteorological Office