Iceland is expected to experience a mild and unsettled Christmas period, with strong winds and significant rainfall forecast across parts of the country. According the Icelandic Met Office, conditions will be dominated by southerly winds in the days leading up to Christmas.
The meteorologists say that the holiday season will be marked by higher-than-average temperatures and widespread rain. The mild southeasterly airflow is expected to bring wet weather, particularly to southern and south-eastern areas, while northern regions are likely to remain largely dry.
Temporary Drop on Thorlak’s Day
Along the south-west coast, windy conditions are forecast, with blustery weather making it feel colder at times. A brief change is expected on Saint Thorlak’s Day (Þorláksmessa), celebrated on 23 December. The winds are set to shift to the south-west, bringing rain or sleet and a temporary drop in temperatures.
However, this cooler spell is not expected to last. By Christmas Eve, forecasts suggest a return to strong southerly winds, accompanied by heavy rainfall. Precipitation is likely to be less intense in the north-east of the country.
On Christmas Day itself, wet conditions are expected to continue in the south, while northern areas may see drier weather. Temperatures are forecast to gradually fall, although conditions are expected to remain relatively mild for the time of year.