Why Is Iceland Experiencing The Worst Summer In 100 Years?

If you have been enduring the heat from your part of the world this summer, give some consideration to Iceland, the tiny Nordic island in the North Atlantic that already has some unpredictable weather patterns and extreme changes between seasons.

This summer, the island is having a particularly grey and wet summer. In fact, it is the greyest and wettest summer since 1914. Not only that, but this summer weather was preceded by a month of rain that lasted the entirety of May.

According to Icelandic meteorologist Trausti Jonsson, the heatwave currently sweeping the UK is to blame for Iceland’s drab summer weather. High pressure from Western Europe has changed the jet stream, causing clouds to drift over the north of the continent, he said. The jet stream’s location is what determines heatwaves.

The jet stream are winds that circulate the earth, determining what place experiences what kind of weather at any given time. This summer, the jet stream simply isn’t moving North. Iceland and the UK actually have a very strong weather connection, with each place usually experiencing the opposite of what the other is having. Add to this the fact that both are isolated islands prone to ocean climate whereas the rest of Europe is more influenced by the rest of the land mass.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.