Heavy rainfall causes landslides and road closures in Westfjords, Iceland

Heavy rainfall has caused significant landslide activity in the Westfjords of Iceland, leading to the closure of several roads until tomorrow morning. The area has seen a series of mudslides since last night, with the conditions exacerbated by saturated ground from recent downpours.

The road through the Ísafjarðardjúp region has been shut since last night, and its reopening remains uncertain. A landslide occurred around 3 PM on the Eyrarhlíð road, connecting Hnífsdalur and Ísafjörður, prompting immediate closure until tomorrow. Additionally, Süðavíkurhlíð has been closed due to the risk of rockfalls.

Emergency shelters were established in Ísafjörður and Bolungarvík for those unable to return home, although they closed early due to reduced need. Local police are advising residents who require overnight accommodation to contact them for assistance.

Witnesses reported loud thuds as landslides fell in the area, yet no evacuation has been deemed necessary at this time. While the forecast indicates a brief respite from rain tomorrow, another bout of heavy rainfall is expected by Thursday morning.

The government has escalated the situation to a state of uncertainty due to ongoing risks of further landslides and rockfalls. Heavy rainfall continues to saturate the ground, particularly in steep terrain, raising concerns about additional hazards. Local authorities are actively monitoring conditions, and while today’s rainfall may lessen, more severe weather is predicted soon after.

Efforts to assist affected individuals include hotel owners in Ísafjörður opening their doors for those displaced, while ferry services are also running to connect different regions in the face of road closures.