Worst Storm of the New Year So Far

The Icelandic Meteorological Office has issued a storm warning for today, Thursday. The whole of Iceland will be affected, but the weather will be particularly severe in the southern and western parts of the country. This storm is due to a low pressure system, originating in the south and moving north. According to the IMO, it is the worst weather to hit in Iceland so far in the new year.

Many parts of the country are already experiencing snow, sleet, and rain. The precipitation will increase in the south and west throughout the day. The storm will hit Reykjavík this afternoon, peaking between 6 and 8 pm. By 9 pm it will begin to die down. At the height of the storm, there may be winds gusting up to 71-101 meters per hour, or 45-63 miles per hour. Higher wind speeds may occur in exposed areas such as the Eyjafjöll mountain range. Mýrdalur, and Öræfi.

Road closures have already been imposed by the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration since noon today. Hellisheiði, Þrengsli, and Mosfellsheiði roads in South Iceland, as well as Kjalarnes road in West Iceland, are closed. The Civil Protection Committee has advised people against travel in all parts of the country today.

It has been reported that ten avalanches occurred this week in the West Fjords. With this storm system, the northern regions of the West Fjords may be in particular trouble with extreme winds and precipitation and likelihood of more avalanches.