Iceland review - 2016, Qupperneq 114

112 ICELAND REVIEW ICELAND REVIEW 113
The weather can change rapidly in Iceland, from calm winds
and clear skies, to rain, snow, sleet and punishing wind
gusts, and back to calm wind and clear skies, all in the
same hour. It’s unpredictable, frustrating, exhilarating and con-
fusing for many travelers, but Icelanders have learned to adapt
and go with the flow. As a result, plans tend to be loose, wheth-
er it’s meeting a friend for coffee, or even an appointment for
a job interview.
Whether you’re a local or traveler, the best course of action is
to have flexible plans.
Some of the most extreme weather you could experience in
Iceland is wind; the type of wind that could literally knock you
off your feet. If the weather forecast is showing strong winds,
it’s important to alter your plans accordingly. Do not underesti-
mate the wind, or any storm advisories. Be safe, smart and stay
prepared.
DRIVE SAFELY
Driving in Iceland can range from peaceful to harrowing, de-
pending on the weather. To check road conditions, visit the
Road Administration’s website at road.is. If there is an advisory
due to wind, rain, snow, or a volcanic eruption or avalanche (it
happens), stay off the road. Advisories are to be taken seriously.
Always remember that road conditions are unpredictable and
car accidents involving foreign drivers are too common. You can
be traveling on a quiet, scenic, paved road that suddenly turns
into an unpaved, rough section. Inexperienced drivers can lose
control of the car quite easily.
UNIQUE HAZARDS
In addition to Iceland’s ex-
treme wind patterns, the
island is home to other
hazards that travelers must
be aware of. For instance,
earthquakes can occur, as
well as avalanches, glacial
floods, sandstorms and volcanic eruptions. There is nothing to
fear, but it’s important to stay informed, listen to advisories and
stay safe. It is essential to closely follow Iceland’s weather web-
site en.vedur.is (you can also download the free Vedur app from
Google Play or Apple App Store).
The Icelandic Met Office updates the weather forecasts and
warnings every three to six hours, with observations updating
every hour, giving guests and locals the most current conditions.
The agency has a long-term advisory role with the Department
of Civil Protection and issues public alerts about impending nat-
ural hazards.
Travelers must remember that traveling to Iceland for “good
weather” is unheard of. The changing conditions are part of the
experience of a trip to Iceland, and the key is being prepared
with layers of clothing, proper footwear and waterproof out-
erwear for walking. For driving, be sure to monitor the weath-
er forecast and road conditions, and always have a map and
charged mobile phone.
en.vedur.is
The weather in Iceland is not casual conversation, but serious business.
Expect the Unexpected
SPECIAL PROMOTIONDRIVING AROUND ICELAND