Driving in Iceland Wind: 10 Safety Tips to Avoid Damage

Wind in Iceland is unlike anywhere else. Gusts can exceed 40 m/s (144 km/h), arriving without warning, changing direction in a split second, and strong enough to damage car doors, knock people over, or even flip vehicles.

Why Is Iceland's Wind So Dangerous?

Iceland is an island in the middle of the North Atlantic where weather systems collide. The terrain is flat across many areas with nothing to slow the wind down. The south coast, Westfjords, and highlands are worst, but strong gusts can hit anywhere.

The Most Common Damage: Car Doors

The single most common wind-related damage on rental cars is door damage. When you open a door in strong wind, the gust catches it and bends or rips it off its hinges. This is not covered by the standard CDW insurance at most rental companies.

10 Safety Tips for Driving in Wind

1. Check the forecast at vedur.is and road.is before setting out.
2. Don't drive if winds exceed 20 m/s (72 km/h) — especially in exposed areas.
3. Park facing into the wind (nose of the car pointing into the wind) when you stop.
4. Always open car doors with both hands and hold tight — the wind can fling the door open with tremendous force.
5. Slow down and keep the car steady — larger vehicles (SUVs, vans) are especially vulnerable.
6. Watch for gusts when emerging from wind shelter (behind mountains, buildings) into open terrain.
7. Avoid bridges and exposed stretches during severe wind.
8. If a sandstorm hits: stop the car, turn off the engine, and wait. Sand destroys paint and glass.
9. Consider wind insurance (SCDW or wind protection) if renting a car.
10. Monitor vedur.is yellow/orange/red warnings — red means do not travel.

High-Risk Areas

The south coast between Vík and Höfn, Snæfellsnes, the Westfjords, and all highland areas are where wind is strongest and most unpredictable. Sandstorms are common on Mýrdalssandur and near Skeiðarársandur.

Conclusion

Iceland's wind is no joke. Damaged car doors cost 50,000–200,000 ISK and basic insurance doesn't cover them. Prepare yourself, check the weather, and never decide to drive "against" the weather.