Warm temperatures surprise residents in northern Iceland as readings reach 21 degrees Celsius

Unusually warm temperatures have been reported across northern and northeastern regions today, with readings reaching as high as 21 degrees Celsius in places like Bakkagerði and Seyðisfjörður, and 20 degrees in Siglufjörður. Residents expressed surprise at such warmth during this season, as one local noted that the atmosphere felt dense and humid, reminiscent of major cities such as Paris or Amsterdam.

Meteorologist Eiríkur Örn Jóhannesson confirmed that these temperatures are indeed out of the ordinary for this time of year but not entirely unprecedented. He explained that a weather system from the west is bringing warm, moist air from the south to these areas. This phenomenon, known as “hnjúkáhrifa,” occurs when warm, wet air meets the dry air descending from the mountains.

Eiríkur further remarked that strong winds are typically necessary for warm air to reach sea level, and while such conditions can arise each winter, the timing may vary. Currently, the temperatures across the northeast are quite diverse, with Egilsstaðir reporting 15 degrees while Reyðarfjörður is at 8 degrees, in contrast to the 18 degrees felt in Húsavík.

The term “hnjúkaþeyr,” derived from Skaftafell, refers to a warm, dry wind that blows from the mountains and can be quite strong and gusty. Though it is not uncommon in southern winds across northern and northeastern areas, its effects are being particularly felt today.