How to Check the Northern Lights Forecast in Iceland Live: A Comprehensive Guide

If you are an ardent fan of nature’s phenomenon or enjoy photography, viewing the Northern Lights would probably top your bucket list. Being one of the most breathtaking sights on the planet, the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis is a jaw-dropping natural light show that paints the sky with fascinating colors, including green, blue, pink, and purple.

If you plan to view the Northern Lights in Iceland, being able to check its forecast is the first and foremost thing you should do. Luckily, in this digital era, your chance of viewing the Northern Lights in Iceland is higher than ever due to the availability of various online tools that can predict where and when the aurora will occur. In this guide, we will go through the best tools you can use to check the Northern Lights forecast in Iceland live.

1. Icelandic Meteorological Office

Icelandic Meteorological Office, also known as Veðurstofa Íslands, is the official institution in Iceland responsible for monitoring and providing weather forecasts for the country. The Icelandic Meteorological Office operates an aurora forecast service that provides forecasts for the next few days. The aurora forecast is updated every 30 minutes and predicts the activity level, cloud cover, and visibility in Iceland.

To check live Northern Lights forecast in Iceland from the Icelandic Meteorological Office, head to their website at en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/aurora/. On the homepage, you can see the forecast chart that predicts the probability of Northern Lights visibility, as well as the cloud cover and moon phase. The highlighted area shows the time of the day that the Northern Lights are most likely to appear.

2. Aurora Service

Aurora Service is an online Northern Lights forecast platform that provides predictions for several countries, including Iceland. The platform uses various data sources, such as the Kp index and solar wind data, to predict the Aurora Borealis’s activity. The service is updated every hour and provides live webcams from several locations in Iceland, giving you the best chance to see the Northern Lights live.

To check the Northern Lights forecast for Iceland on Aurora Service, head to their website at auroraservice.eu/. On the homepage, select “Europe” from the drop-down menu, and then click “Iceland” to view the forecast. The Aurora Service forecast will show you the predicted visibility, aurora intensity, and the Kp index for the next few days.

3. Aurora Alerts

Aurora Alerts is a mobile application available for iPhone and Android users that provides Northern Lights forecasts based on the user’s location. The app uses real-time information from various data sources combined with algorithmic predictions to provide users with the most accurate Northern Lights forecast. Aurora Alerts also sends push notifications to users when there is a high probability of Northern Lights visibility.

To download and check Northern Lights forecast in Iceland on Aurora Alerts, head to your phone’s app store and search for “Aurora Alerts.” Once the app is installed, enter your location in Iceland, and the app will provide you with the latest forecast.

4. SpaceWeatherLive

SpaceWeatherLive is an online space weather community that provides various space weather updates, including Northern Lights forecasts. The website provides multiple tools to predict the Northern Lights, including a real-time Kp index chart and a 3-day geomagnetic activity chart.

To check the Northern Lights forecast from SpaceWeatherLive, go to their website at spaceweatherlive.com. On the homepage, click “Aurora forecast” to access the Northern Lights prediction data, including a live Kp index chart and a 3-day geomagnetic activity chart.

Conclusion

The Northern Lights are one of the most beautiful natural phenomena, and Iceland is one of the best places to see them. By following the above tips and tools, you can increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights during your trip to Iceland.

Remember, even though the above tools can help predict the Northern Lights, it is crucial to keep yourself updated with the latest forecast before heading out to view the aurora. As with all weather conditions, there is always an element of unpredictability that you should be aware of.

An Insider’s Guide to Reykjavik: Uncovering Hidden Gems and Experiencing the Northern Lights

As the capital city of Iceland, Reykjavik offers a unique blend of cosmopolitan and scenic experiences. While many tourists flock to the city’s iconic landmarks, there are numerous hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations that only locals know about. In this insider’s guide to Reykjavik, we’ll explore some of the city’s lesser-known attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions Beyond the Tourist Spots

While Reykjavik has many recognizable landmarks, such as the Hallgrimskirkja church or the Harpa Concert Hall, there is much more to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. Take a walk around the tranquil Tjornin Pond or the vibrant flea market at Kolaportid for some local flavor. The picturesque Perlan observation deck not only offers stunning skyline views but also informative exhibits about Iceland’s natural environment.

A visit to the quirky Icelandic Phallological Museum may not be for everyone, but it is certainly an intriguing and unique experience. Snorkeling at Silfra fissure or exploring the caves and lava fields of Raufarholshellir will also provide visitors with unforgettable memories.

Icelandic Cuisine and Dining Spots

Icelandic cuisine is an experience in itself, with a focus on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. For a traditional Icelandic dish, head to Bakarameistarinn for their famous seafood soup or try the iconic Icelandic hot dogs at Baejarins Beztu Pylsur. Reykjavik also has a vibrant coffee scene, with trendy spots such as Reykjavik Roasters and Kaffihus Vesturbæjar.

For a unique dining experience, head to the Perlan’s revolving glass dome restaurant and enjoy a stunning view of the city while indulging in local cuisine. Reykjavik’s microbrewery scene is also on the rise, with unique blends such as Gæðingur Öl Brugghús and RVK Brewing Company.

Cultural Experiences in Reykjavik

Iceland has a rich cultural heritage, and Reykjavik offers a plethora of opportunities to experience it firsthand. The annual Reykjavik Arts Festival in June is a great showcase of Icelandic art, music, and film, while the Reykjavik International Film Festival in September is an excellent opportunity to see movies from around the world.

For an imbued cultural experience, visit The Settlement Exhibition, which offers a glimpse into Iceland’s Viking past, or the Icelandic Opera for some classical music performances. The quirky Icelandic Phallological Museum, as mentioned, is not just a tourist trap, but a charming exploration of the country’s wild side.

Reykjavik’s Local History

Reykjavik has a fascinating history that has shaped its unique culture. From Viking settlers to the first parliament (Althingi) in 930 CE to the devastating volcanic eruptions and economic collapse, the city’s past is worth exploring. A visit to the Reykjavik City Museum or the Saga Museum will provide an in-depth look at how Iceland became the country it is today.

While the city’s history is evident in its architecture and landmarks, it is also woven into its culture and traditions. Take a stroll around the quaint streets of the old town to see the colorful houses and learn about the city’s early inhabitants.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly unforgettable experience, venture out of the city and experience Iceland’s natural wonders. A trip to the Golden Circle, which includes the iconic Gullfoss waterfall, the erupting geysers at Geysir and the Þingvellir National Park, will provide an awe-inspiring glimpse of Iceland’s rugged landscape. The Snæfellsnes peninsula, with its dramatic cliffs and sea views, is equally captivating.

For a unique experience, take a dip in the Viti crater in Askja or go ice-caving in Skaftafell. Whale-watching tours and Northern Lights viewing in the winter months are also some of the top off-the-beaten-path activities in Reykjavik.

In conclusion, Reykjavik is a city full of surprises, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and culinary experiences. From hidden gems to off-the-beaten-path adventures, Reykjavik is a destination that will leave you feeling enchanted, inspired, and eager to share your experience with others.