Conference addresses civil protection challenges in Iceland amidst climate change concerns

The Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management of the National Police Commissioner is hosting its third annual conference on civil protection in Iceland today. The event will review recent events in the Reykjanes Peninsula and issues related to communication disruptions in North Iceland.

It is deemed essential to clarify the roles within the civil protection system, especially in the context of climate change and extreme weather. With topics such as what actions should be taken when electricity or hot water fails, when communication lines are disrupted, or when landslides occur in populated areas, the civil protection laws are under comprehensive review, started in spring 2023.

Sólberg S. Bjarnason, head of the civil protection department, emphasizes the need to refine responsibilities rather than overhaul the system entirely. Responsibilities should be clearly defined for the state, municipalities, and essential infrastructure to help them assess risks and improve resilience. Proactive measures should be taken to prevent risks, while also preparing response plans to address any incidents that may arise.

During the conference, discussions will focus on the seismic activity in the Reykjanes Peninsula and the recent communication issues that left all contact with the Eyjafjörður area disrupted for approximately twenty minutes. Bjarnason stresses the importance of ensuring reliable alternative communication routes to minimize future disruptions and to maintain operational capacity during emergencies.

The conference will be live-streamed on the Facebook page of the Department of Civil Protection, starting at 1 PM.