The Icelandic Coast Guard has issued a warning for very large wave heights along the country’s coastline, as a deep low-pressure system moves closer to Iceland. According to mbl.is, dangerous weather is forecast for most of the country tomorrow, and residents are urged to exercise caution near the coast.
The Coast Guard specifically advises that ships and boats in harbours could face increased risks, as suction may form due to the extraordinary conditions. In addition, the agency notes that sea levels could be higher than regular tide forecasts predict. Where wind and waves push onshore, the sea could overflow quays, potentially inundating low-lying coastal areas.
The Icelandic Meteorological Office (Veðurstofa Íslands), which monitors weather, earthquakes and volcanic activity in the country, has issued yellow and orange warnings ahead of the approaching storm. Yellow, orange and red warnings correspond to increasing levels of severity, with red being the most serious.
A Coast Guard spokesperson said, “Storm warnings are in effect for most forecast areas.” In a further statement they added, “Where wind and waves push onshore the sea could flow onto quays and inundate low-lying coast.” These quotes were reported by Icelandic media and translated for this coverage.
Sources
- mbl.is (first reported) in Icelandic
- Viðskiptablaðið in Icelandic
- DV in Icelandic
