Storms affecting most of the country, particularly Southeast and East Iceland, have damaged property and put travellers in danger. According to the Icelandic Met Office, storm conditions are expected to continue into the evening. Residents and tourists alike are advised against travelling in the affected areas.
Search and rescue called out
Search and rescue teams in Southeast Iceland were called out around 5.00am this morning to assist travellers stuck between Hornafjörður and Djúpivogur. Weather appeared to have broken windows on the vehicle and the travellers did not feel safe either continuing nor turning back.
Search and rescue teams were also called to Höfn and Djúpivogur due to roofs being blown off and other damaged property. A widespread power outage in South Iceland early this morning appears to have been caused by the storm. Power is now back on in the region.
Flights and buses cancelled
Domestic flights to Egilsstaðir and Húsavík have been cancelled today due to the weather, as well as morning flights to Akureyri. Public buses have been cancelled between Vík and Höfn in South Iceland, as well as Akureyri and Egilsstaðir. Buses from Akureyri to Siglufjörður and Húsavík were cancelled this morning, but may operate later today if conditions improve.
Storm continues into evening
Rain and southwest winds at speeds of 23-30m/s are expected in most parts of Iceland today, though conditions will improve somewhat in the afternoon. East Iceland can expect strong gales into the evening, while falling temperatures will bring sleet and snow to the north of the country. Swelling rivers in Southeast Iceland could lead to landslides or slush floods.
