Increased landslide risks in western and southern regions of Iceland due to heavy rainfall

Increased risk of landslides due to ongoing rainfall

The country’s western and southern regions are facing heightened landslide risks, prompting caution for drivers, particularly in the Westfjords.

Significant rainfall is expected throughout the day, exacerbated by already water-saturated soil from last week’s precipitation. This situation raises the likelihood of landslides, necessitating vigilance on the roads, especially in the Westfjords.

Forecasts indicate considerable accumulated rainfall in the western part of the country today, peaking around midday before decreasing in the evening. Another weather front is expected to arrive around midnight into early Tuesday. With continued warm temperatures, all precipitation will fall as rain, leading to snowmelt in areas where snow remains, increasing water levels in riverbeds.

The heaviest rainfall is predicted for the southern Westfjords, Barðaströnd, Snæfellsnes, the southwestern part of the country, and areas near Mýrdalsjökull and Öræfi.

As a result of this rainfall, rising water levels in rivers and streams are anticipated, filling channels typically dry. Surface movements such as rockfalls and landslides can occur suddenly, especially on steep slopes, so caution is advised to avoid lingering in those areas.

By Wednesday, rainfall will diminish. It is crucial to report any landslides to the monitoring service, which can then reassess the situation. Reports can be made by calling the provided number or by emailing the service directly.