Cyclones

Intense storms frequently occur near Iceland in the winter season. One particular year, in 2015, Iceland experienced hurricane force winds so high that such an intense storm occurs every 10-20 years. The Icelandic MET office issued a weather warning Monday December 7, 2015 to warn citizens of the impending storm and its magnitude. Forecaster Elin Bjork Jonasdottir warned the public that the storm would begin with heavy slow fall causing little to no visibility. In the late evening, warmer conditions would lead to sleet or rainfall until Wednesday that week. Forecasters predicted that this storm will be far more severe than storms previously experienced. In an article by Eric Chaney, he described this cyclone to be the worst experienced by Iceland in 25 years. The East Iceland Hallormsstadahls recorded winds of 160 mph. Sustained maximum wind-speeds of 60 mph were also recorded. Icelandic authorities gave notice to the public before the storm system hit and even upped the threat level to “hazard."

 700 rescue workers worked on approx. 350 calls during this storm. Effective emergency crews were on stand by to help people in need during this record storm in Iceland. There were no reports of any severe injuries and attributed this to the public heeding the warnings given by the authorities. Property damage was experienced with roofing becoming loose and even flying into a neighbor’s yard. Two boats in Reykjavik sank in the harbor and all domestic flights were grounded. There were many road closures due to the continuing hazardous conditions. 

With a storm of this magnitude the lack of injury or fatalities was due to authorities having enough time to warn the public. 

Sources: 

weather.com Iceland's Worst Storm in 25 Years Causes Property Damage But No Injuries by Eric Chaney

en.vedur.is Icelandic Met Office Weather Warning-hurricane force winds 7 Dec.

Photo from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Icelandic_Low