Unstable ground conditions are expected in parts of Iceland over the Christmas period, as a combination of mild temperatures and prolonged rainfall raises the likelihood of flooding and landslides.
According to a flood watch issued by the Icelandic Meteorological Office, the situation is most concerning in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords, where ground saturation is expected to increase rapidly over the coming days.
Storm Raises Risks 
Weather warnings issued for Christmas Eve in Iceland. Photo: vedur.is
According to an article in RÚV, a southerly storm system is forecast to arrive in western Iceland around midday on Þorláksmessa, 23 December, and persist until Christmas Eve.
The system will bring unusually warm air and heavy rainfall to southern and western regions, while much of the rest of the country is expected to see limited precipitation.
Rainfall totals of 100–150 millimetres are forecast in low-lying areas of Snæfellsnes and the Westfjords over a three-day period.
With much of the terrain already snow-free, runoff is expected to flow quickly into rivers and streams, increasing the risk of water-logging and slope instability. In areas where snow remains in gullies or stream channels, slush flows may also occur.
Residents are encouraged to check drainage around buildings, while travellers are advised to take extra care in steep terrain. Authorities also stress that landslides may occur after peak rainfall has passed.
Road and weather updates are available from the Icelandic Road Administration.