Icelandic Met Office reviews storm warnings after Siglufjörður damage

The Icelandic Met Office is reviewing its forecasts and warning systems after last week’s storm caused extensive property damage in Siglufjörður, mbl.is reported. The review will include an assessment of weather models, warnings, forecasts and monitoring equipment.

Met Office director Hildigunnur Thorsteinsson said the agency routinely examines its work when weather causes injury or property damage. The lack of a weather gauge in central Siglufjörður has drawn criticism.

Thorsteinsson said it can be difficult to find a suitable place for a wind gauge in a built-up area where measurements are not disrupted. The Met Office does not have gauges in every town, she said, but is open to working with local authorities that want to install and operate one. The agency will discuss the issue with people in Siglufjörður.

Even if a gauge would not improve the forecast, the Met Office would still discuss installing one if the town wanted it, Thorsteinsson said. Collecting data is important, but gauges and their operation cost money. The agency aims to place its equipment where it can best support forecasts for the country as a whole.

The review will also consider whether warnings could be issued for smaller, local areas. Thorsteinsson said that would be complicated when many warnings cover different areas and start at different times, particularly for one forecaster working an evening shift. The agency will look for practical improvements that do not require major changes to staffing or funding.