Rescue teams across Iceland were mobilized on Monday to respond to a series of incidents triggered by fierce winds and treacherous conditions that disrupted travel and caused significant property damage, particularly in the southwestern region.
Fortunately, RÚV has reported that as of now, no weather warnings remain in effect across the country.
According to the national search and rescue organization Landsbjörg, most of the distress calls concerned stranded motorists, blocked roadways, and scattered debris. Near Miðfell, located east of Lake Þingvallavatn, between ten and fifteen vehicles required assistance; others faced similar issues at Þingvellir National Park, where they were escorted to nearby towns after becoming immobilized. Notably, some vehicles, including motorhomes, had to be abandoned.
Additional incidents were reported in various locations, including Þrengsli, Hellisheði, and Kjósarskarðsvegur.
In the north, rescue workers provided aid to approximately seven vehicles near Biskupsháls in the Mývatn area. Further west, around ten individuals were assisted down from mountain roads in Tálknafjörður and Bíldudalur.
“In Suðurnes, rescue teams were on the ground managing road closures and remained alert in Grindavík due to concerns about a possible landslip in the area. At six o’clock, Þorbjörn in Grindavík was called out to assist with storm-related issues in the town,” stated a Landsbjörg announcement.
Reports of building damage have also surfaced. In the towns of Hella and Hvolsvöllur, roof tiles and cladding were ripped off homes, while concerns were raised about impending roof damage in Reykjanesbær.
In addition to dealing with storm-related emergencies, rescue teams provided support for medical transport in the southwestern region. Separately, emergency services responded to a private aircraft that departed from Akureyri Airport after a potential engine failure was reported; fortunately, the plane landed safely shortly afterward.
