Landslides close roads and threaten water supply in Westfjords, Iceland

The road connecting Hnífsdalur and Ísafjörður is currently closed due to numerous landslides in the Westfjords, triggered by heavy rain over the past few days. The road that runs through Ísafjarðardjúp has also been closed since last night, and it remains uncertain when it will reopen.

A significant landslide occurred around 3 PM today at Eyrarhlíð, affecting water supply lines to Hnífsdalur. Authorities have warned residents of potential water supply issues following this afternoon’s landslide. SMS alerts were dispatched to local inhabitants advising them to fill water containers, as there is a chance the pipeline may burst due to ongoing instability in the area.

The weather conditions have led to an increased risk of further landslides and rockfall, especially in steep areas. As rainfall continues, the saturated ground poses a challenge for safety and accessibility. The local police have announced that the road will remain closed this evening and overnight.

Community members have begun to stock up on bottled water, leading to supply shortages in local stores, particularly in Bónus, where shelves have been emptied. The landscape remains dangerous, with continued advisories in place for anyone in the affected regions.

Efforts are underway to clear the affected areas, and authorities anticipate reopening the roads once safety has been ensured—likely within the next hour as cleanup progresses. The public is advised to stay updated on road conditions via official channels.