Iceland experiences record low temperatures and heavy rainfall in August

August 2024 was characterized by notably cold, windy, and wet weather across Iceland, with average temperatures recorded as among the lowest this century. The Icelandic Meteorological Office reported that August’s precipitation reached unusually high levels at various weather stations throughout the country.

The month was marked by unusually low air pressure, with levels not seen in Reykjavik since record-keeping began in 1820. Widespread strong winds and heavy rainfall caused disruptions, particularly in northern regions. The rainfall amounts registered in August were among the highest recorded.

In Reykjavik, the average temperature was 9.9 degrees Celsius, which is 1.2 degrees below the average for the period from 1991 to 2020, and 1.4 degrees below the average of the previous decade. The city of Akureyri reported an even lower average temperature of 9.3 degrees, falling 1.5 degrees below the 1991 to 2020 average, and 1.6 degrees under the last ten years’ average.

The adverse weather conditions significantly impacted various aspects of life in Iceland, leading to challenges for agriculture and other sectors during this wet and sunless month. As communities adjust to this climatic phenomenon, attention turns to recovery and adaptation strategies for the future.