Avalanche Closes Part Of Main Road And Weather Conditions Intensifies

Yesterday’s severe weather conditions caused some damage around Iceland. In the north, an avalanche fell in Ljósavatn. Thankfully no one was injured, according to Vísir, but the road remains closed. In addition, the whole East of Iceland and the Central Highlands are under a Yellow alert that will be in place for the whole weekend.

The avalanche happened around 22:00 last night, in the northeast of the country. In this instance, a car did get caught by the snow but no people were injured. As a response to the conditions, the rescue team has set up a relief station at Stóri-Tjörnin, and fifteen drivers have already sought help in the station. Authorities believe that the roads in the area might be re-opened later tonight when the risk for a new avalanche is overruled.

You can also expect a very snow-filled Christmas, especially in the east of the country. Throughout the weekend, snowstorms will be prevalent and dangerous in the Northeast, Eastfjords, and the Southeast. Therefore, driving conditions will be very hazardous since the strong winds and the fresh powder snow will make visibility very difficult. For the rest of the week, the whole country will be under dark clouds but bright snow, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to -4°C.

The yellow alerts emitted by the Icelandic MET Office should be in place in the East of Iceland until around Sunday by 18h. When traveling make sure to check the road and weather conditions.