Yellow and orange weather warnings take effect across Iceland

Yellow and orange weather warnings are coming into force across Iceland today as a deep, widespread low-pressure system near southern Greenland brings strong winds and rain, mbl.is reports.

Warnings will first take effect around Breiðafjörður and Faxaflói, then be added elsewhere during the day. A yellow warning is in force in the capital region from 3 p.m. until the evening, with south-easterly and southerly winds of 13 to 20 metres per second. Winds will be strongest in elevated neighbourhoods, with sharp gusts near high-rise buildings. Loose objects may be blown away, and considerable rain is expected for a time.

Winds will strengthen from the south and south-east across the country, reaching gale or storm force in the afternoon. The strongest winds are forecast for northern Snæfellsnes, where southerly gales and gusts of up to 30 metres per second are expected. An orange warning for Breiðafjörður will apply from 4 p.m. until the evening. The winds could cause damage, and travel may be hazardous, particularly for vehicles vulnerable to strong winds.

The low-pressure system’s front will move east across the country overnight, bringing strong south-westerly winds and showers. Another low is expected tomorrow, bringing storm-force or gale-force southerly and south-westerly winds with rain, especially in southern and western parts of the country. Winds are expected to ease gradually on Monday, but wet weather will continue.