Polar bear sighted near summer cottages in Jökulfjörður, Iceland

A polar bear was spotted today near summer cottages at Höfðaströnd in Jökulfjörður, Iceland. A cottage owner reported seeing the bear wandering around the area. The police in the Westfjords region have issued a warning to residents, advising them to stay indoors and remain vigilant.

Authorities have confirmed the sighting, noting that they are deploying personnel by helicopter and boat to handle the situation. Hlynur Snorrason, a senior police officer in Ísafjörður, emphasized the importance of caution for anyone in the vicinity.

The bear was seen moving near the summer houses during the afternoon. Following consultations with the Environment Agency, the Westfjords police called for a helicopter from LHG, and the rescue vessel Kobbi Láka has already departed with two police officers on board.

The recent weeks have seen several icebergs drifting off the shores of the Westfjords, a phenomenon that may have contributed to the bear’s presence in the area.