The Icelandic Meteorological Service has posted warnings for extremely hazardous conditions in the North of Iceland starting October 14, 2026. The warning extends from 6 AM October 14, 2026, to 6 AM October 15, 2026.
As noted in the highly recommended website Safetravel.is, “Between Akureyri and Bifröst, in the Westfjords and the highlands. Strong wind with sleet/snow. Poor visibility and icy/snowy roads. Very difficult travelling conditions, transportation disruption possible, loose objects outside can be blown away. Adjust travel plans.”
A more nuanced explanation can be found at Vedur.is. Using colour coding, it marks most of the country with a yellow warning due to the high winds and rain. The Westfjörds and Northern Iceland have an orange warning due to the addition of sleet and snow.
The meteorologist comments, posted on Vedur.is, include the following explanation: “A storm is expected from the east with considerable precipitation this morning, but in the afternoon tomorrow a heavy snowstorm will move in from the north in the northwestern part of the country with considerable or heavy sleet or snowfall.”
The wind patterns, according to vedur.is, will be 15-25 metres per second in the south. In the north this heavy wind will bring sleet and snow.
Snow tires, or studded tires, are by law prohibited until October 31. Last year’s October snow storm in the capital area resulted in significant traffic snarls. However, in the interest of safety, these rules will be overlooked in the north.
The Westfjörds Police Department has stated they will not enforce the snow tire ban if drivers wish to protect themselves. They posted about this on their social media, stating “As we know, roads can be expected to become slippery in many parts of the Westfjords, particularly on mountain passes, as winter approaches. Road safety is our priority. Police in the Westfjords will not object if drivers choose to take precautions by using studded tires. It is important to always drive according to conditions, as speed limits are based on the best possible driving conditions.”
Again, we recommend the safetravel.is website and app, and we highly recommend avoiding any travel tomorrow.