Man rescued after storm-driven trek in Kaldalón region of Ísafjarðardjúp, Iceland

A man who trekked all night seeking shelter from a severe storm in the Kaldalón region of Ísafjarðardjúp expressed gratitude for having winter gear and boots in his car trunk, which played a critical role in his safety.

The incident occurred earlier this week when the Kaldalón road was closed due to rising water levels. Ingi Guðnason, who was visiting historical sites in the Westfjords, found himself in dangerous conditions Monday night while driving from Hallstöðum in Langadalsströnd to Dalbæ via Kaldalón.

As he approached the Hviltar bridge, he noticed that the lagoon had turned into a vast body of water, completely submerged. Upon seeing water flowing over the road, he decided to assess the situation further. As he moved closer to his vehicle, he was alarmed to find that both rear wheels were stuck in water.

Unable to drive any further, Ingi began his long trek on foot. He remarked that he likely wouldn’t have survived the night without his winter gear. “I had a cold weather suit and boots in the car, which I was able to put on right there in the storm,” he recounted.

Ingi set off around midnight and finally found shelter at the Laugarholt farm after walking approximately 20 kilometers and arriving around 6 AM. The road authorities were alerted by morning, and by midday, they managed to free the stranded vehicle. Ingi is now recovering from the ordeal, although he admitted he isn’t feeling at his best.