Uncertainty declared in northern Iceland as severe weather threatens travel and agriculture

A state of uncertainty has been declared in northern Iceland due to severe weather forecasts affecting travel conditions today and tomorrow. Authorities are alerting travelers to deteriorating road conditions, while farmers have accelerated their efforts to bring sheep down from the mountains.

Forecasts predict strong northern winds, dropping temperatures, and sleet or snow in the northern parts of the country over the next two days. A yellow alert is currently in place, which will escalate to orange tomorrow. The national police chief, in coordination with local police chiefs across Westfjords, Northwest Iceland, and Northeast Iceland, has declared a civil alarm.

Birna María Þorbjörnsdóttir, a tourist safety project manager, indicated there is always a high state of readiness when severe weather is anticipated. Alerts are sent through Safetravel to many foreign tourists in Iceland, with information disseminated on the agency’s website and social media platforms. They also reach out to travel service providers to discuss the importance of warning their clients about the impending weather.

In addition to concerns for motorists, there is a notable presence of outdoor enthusiasts in the highlands, making rescues potentially more challenging. Authorities are making efforts to inform rangers and hut wardens who regularly meet with tourists about the incoming severe weather.

As a precaution, many sheep farmers in Húnavatnssýslur, Skagafjörður, Eyjafjörður, and Þingeyjarsýslur have successfully completed their first herding trips and brought their flocks down from the pastures due to the forecasted extreme weather. Some areas, however, have increased urgency, with farmers in Fljótsdal beginning their herding efforts a day earlier than planned, as certain highlands remain untouched.