Nat­ur­al Dis­as­ters

Natural disasters can occur at short notice and in some cases without warning. In order to reduce the risk of damage and accidents, we need to be prepared for the unexpected and react appropriately if, for example, an earthquake, volcanic eruption, or storm strikes.

Storms

It is important to closely monitor the weather in Iceland because it can change quickly. The Icelandic Meteorological Office and the Icelandic Road Administration can provide a clear picture of the weather, traffic and warnings for the coming days. Warnings are yellow, orange or red, depending on the severity of the weather.

Keep in mind before storms

Travelling and gatherings

• Cancel travelling and gatherings

• Assess whether trips to the countryside are necessary and whether travel should be postponed due to poor weather forecasts.

• Listen to announcements and/or warnings that may be given on television or radio.

Housing and other property

• Ensure that roof slabs are securely attached, as well as gutters, railings, and the like.

• Keep loose outdoor items from blowing away. Trampolines, outdoor furniture, Christmas decorations, and barbecues tend to blow away in strong winds.

• Make sure all windows and doors are securely closed.

• Monitor the weather and announcements.

Information can be found on the websites of the Meteorological Office and the Icelandic Road Administration.

Earthquakes

What to do when an earthquake occurs?

Home prevention is important when it comes to earthquakes, which rarely give warning, to reduce the risk of accidents and damage. Here are some helpful tips:

Considerations for housing:

• Secure cabinets, shelves, and heavy items to the floor or walls. Always keep wheels on furniture in the locked position. If there is no lock on the wheels, place a frame around the wheels to prevent the furniture from moving during an earthquake. Remember, however, that a frame or wheel locks will not prevent the furniture from tipping over.

• Do not place heavy objects high on shelves or walls unless securely fastened. Blue tack can be used to ensure that lighter items do not move during an earthquake.

• Secure heaters and radiators. Familiarise yourself with the location of the water inlet and electrical panel.

• Hang pictures and chandeliers in closed loops.

• Keep heavy tableware in lower cabinets and drawers and install safety locks or child locks on cabinet doors to prevent their contents from falling out.

• Prevent objects from falling onto sleeping areas.

• Finish secure suspended ceilings and raised floors carefully.

• Cover windows or install safety film on windows to prevent the risk of glass fragments flying if a window breaks. Do not place beds beneath windows if there is a risk of earthquakes.

• Listen to announcements and instructions given on the radio and remember: Crouch-cover-hold.

If you are indoors when an earthquake starts – do not run:

• Hold still, many accidents can occur when people run.

• Go under a table or bed and hold on to the table or bed leg.

• Crouch down in a corner by a supporting wall or in a doorway by a supporting wall.

• Cover your head and face with a pillow - in case you wake up during an earthquake.

• Stay away from windows – they can break.

• Let people know you’re okay via text message when the earthquake stops.

If you are outdoors when you feel an earthquake – do not run inside:

• Stay outside.

• Do not stay near tall buildings that may collapse or tall trees.

• Rockfalls, landslides, and avalanches can occur from slopes and mountainous terrain.

• Power lines can be dangerous – be careful not to touch them.

• Try to get to an open area where there are no buildings crowding you.

If you are driving a car when you feel an earthquake:

• Park the car and stop. Roads and bridges can be damaged in an earthquake

• Keep your seatbelts fastened

• Stay in your car, as it can protect you from the debris that is released during an earthquake – listen to the radio, which is usually the first source of information about the earthquake.

More detailed information about earthquake prevention and response can be found on the Civil Protection’s website.

Volcanic eruptions

When a volcanic eruption occurs, it is important to follow instructions and advice from the Civil Protection Department. A volcanic eruption can pose great danger due to both gas pollution and ashfall. Let's familiarise ourselves with the situation before we lace up our hiking boots to go see the eruption.

Response to ashfall

• Take the shortest route out of the ashfall by going against the wind.

• Close doors and windows. Seal windows if necessary.

• Place damp towels in front of thresholds and elsewhere to prevent drafts.

• Cover your face with, for example, a mask, handkerchief or clothing. Wear eye protection if it is necessary to be outside in ashfall.

• Disconnect pipes from gutters to prevent drains from clogging.

• If you suffer from chronic lung and heart conditions you are advised to remain indoors and avoid contact with ash.

Response to loss or damage

• Remember, in case of emergency, contact 112 immediately.

• If not, take the necessary measures to minimise the loss or damage, if possible, but also proceed with caution.

• Once you have responded, the next step is to report the loss or damage to us.

• Sending photos with the damage report can speed up processing.

• Assessment of the extent of loss or damage or repairs will not begin until the weather has passed. It must be safe for the public to travel so that assessors can reach the scene.

• After loss or damage has been reported, employees will contact you at the earliest opportunity to begin processing the case.

• If you are in urgent need of assistance due to loss or damage, please call the emergency number 514 1099, which is open 24 hours a day.