Orange Weather Warning in Iceland: What does it mean? 

If you’ve ever seen a notification about an Orange Weather Warning in Iceland and wondered, “Should I cancel my trip plans?”, you’re not alone.  

When you’re in Iceland, the weather is more than just small talk, it’s a major part of planning your day.  

These color-coded alerts are crucial info for every traveler. 

Within the first few hours of stepping foot on this beautifully rugged island, you’ll likely hear about the weather, and for good reason.  

Iceland’s weather can turn on a dime.  

In this article I’ll go over; 

• What an orange weather warning means,  

• What not to do 

• What you should do 

• Tell you what to wear 

• And answer some frequently asked questions. 

And here’s a quick youtube video about it if you prefer that!

Alright, let’s break this down. 

What Does an Orange Warning Mean? 

Iceland uses a color-coded weather alert system to help both locals and tourists understand how serious a weather situation is.  

Here’s a quick breakdown: 

• 🟢 Green – Everything’s fine; go about your day. 

• 🟡 Yellow – Be cautious. Conditions could become tricky. 

• 🟠 Orange – This is where it gets serious. 

• 🔴 Red – Severe conditions. Stay indoors if you can. 

So what does orange actually mean?  

It typically involves strong winds, sometimes mixed with snow or rain, depending on the season. You might face: 

• Wind speeds over 22 meters per second (that’s 49+ mph) 

• Gusts powerful enough to knock people off balance (usually not an issue for young people) 

• Risk of doors being ripped off vehicles  

• Pro tip: always park into the wind. 

• Road closures and canceled tours 

• Canceled flights 

Unlike many other countries, an orange warning in Iceland isn’t something to casually ignore.  

Even seasoned Icelanders change their plans on these days, that’s saying a lot. 

And don’t be fooled by calm conditions in Reykjavík.  

Head out to the South Coast or up into the Highlands, and things can get wild in a hurry. 

Personally, I would rethink my travel day if it’s an orange warning. It will depend on where I am and what I am going to be doing.  

So if I am going to be driving up and over a (small) mountain/heath – we call that ‘heiði – then I’ll absolutely rethink my plans. 

What NOT to Do During an Orange Weather Warning 

When there’s an orange alert, the smartest thing you can do is listen to locals and change your plans.  

Here are some definite don’ts: 

• ❌ Don’t drive through mountain passes or coastal roads if advised against it. 

• ❌ Don’t assume Reykjavík’s weather reflects the countryside. 

• ❌ Don’t ignore warnings from hotel staff or tour guides. 

• ❌ Don’t plan long hikes or ice cave tours without double-checking conditions. 

Many hotels and tour operators are flexible on orange days, they’d rather reschedule than see anyone get hurt. 

What Should You Do Instead? 

You don’t need to lock yourself indoors, though it’s a fine option.  

Iceland still offers plenty on orange days. 

Here are safer alternatives: 

• 🏊 Visit a local geothermal pool 

• ☕ Sip coffee at a cozy Reykjavík café 

• 🖼️ Check out museums or art galleries 

• 🎲 Have a board game day at your hotel 

• 🌬️ Take a short, safe walk in the wind, experience Iceland’s wild side! 

Just make sure you’re bundled up and not heading into remote areas. 

What to Wear in Iceland? (Especially During an Orange Warning) 

When there’s an orange alert, wearing the right clothing can make all the difference.  

Think of it this way: Icelandic weather doesn’t care about fashion, it demands function. 

Essentials for Orange Warning Days: 

• A good jacket to protect you from the wind and rain 

• Thermal base layer 

• Mid layers. Fleece, wool or synthetic. 

• Outdoor pants (water-resistant is best) 

• Sturdy boots with good grip 

• Wool socks and gloves 

• A warm hat that covers your ears 

Tip: 

Don’t wear jeans. If they get wet, they’ll stay wet. Instead, go for synthetic or wool layers that keep you warm even if damp. 

What to Pack for Iceland? 

Packing for Iceland can be a puzzle.  

Here’s your orange-warning-friendly checklist: 

Must-Have Item	Why It Matters
Good outer layer	Blocks wind and rain/snow
Fleece or wool mid-layer	Provides warmth without bulk
Base layers (thermal)	Keeps your core temperature stable
Gloves and hat	Extremities get cold fast in strong winds
Hiking boots	Essential for icy and wet conditions
Power bank	Your phone will die faster in the cold
Emergency snacks & water	In case you’re stuck or delayed due to conditions

💡 Crucial Tip: Check road.is, safetravel.is, and vedur.is every morning during your trip. Weather and road conditions can change quickly. 

Outdoor Clothing Rental – Save Luggage Space 

If lugging around bulky clothes doesn’t sound appealing, you’re not alone. That’s why outdoor gear rental is a game-changer. 

Rent all the outdoor gear you need to enjoy Iceland without worrying too much about the weather.  

Check out our selection right here! 

Why rent? 

• ✅ High-quality gear 

• ✅ Saves luggage space 

• ✅ Less expensive than buying gear you won’t need again 

• ✅ Less waste = more sustainable travel 

Final Thoughts: Take it Seriously and Stay Curious 

The Orange Weather Warning in Iceland isn’t meant to scare, but if you absolutely have to travel, then you need to prepare and know what’s going on. 

Iceland’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring, and with a little caution and planning, you can enjoy every stormy, snowy, or sunny moment. Instead of going for a drive, you can go for a walk in town or a very (and I mean very) easy hike.  

I don’t mean you should do a 2-hour hike outside of town.  

Whether you’re canceling a glacier hike or swapping a road trip for a hot spring soak, Iceland always has something magical to offer, even in a windstorm. 

And remember, with IcelandCover, you don’t need to pack like a polar explorer. Just rent what you need, stay warm, stay dry, and have fun. 

FAQ: Orange Weather Warning in Iceland 

Q1: Is it safe to travel during an orange warning? 

 A: Only if absolutely necessary. Avoid exposed roads, check weather and road sites, and follow local advice. 

Q2: Can I get a refund on tours during an orange warning? A: Most tour operators will reschedule or refund if your activity is affected by an orange or red alert.  

Q3: Are weather alerts the same across Iceland? 

 A: No. Alerts are regional, check vedur.is to see where the warning applies. 

Q4: Can I walk around Reykjavík during an orange warning? 

 A: Usually yes, but wear proper gear and be aware of strong wind gusts. 

Q5: How often do orange warnings happen? 

 A: Mostly in fall and winter, particularly due to wind. They aren’t unusual but not frequent either.  

Q6: What gear should I rent for bad weather? 

 A: Windproof jacket, outdoor pants pants, hiking boots, and gloves are essentials. All available on icelandcover.com.