Mar 4 • 08:34 UTC 🇮🇸 Iceland Visir

Sought Shelter in Hreysi

Two skiers sought refuge in an old emergency shelter near Hreysiskvísl due to difficult weather conditions, prompting a significant rescue operation.

On March 4, 2026, two skiers were rescued after they sought shelter in an emergency hut at Hreysiskvísl, located significantly north of Þórisvatn along the Sprengisandsleið route. The request for assistance was relayed to the Icelandic rescue services via the Garmin emergency center in the United States, following activation of the emergency signal on the skiers' location devices. A yellow weather warning had been issued for the area, indicating worsening conditions and necessitating a timely response from local rescue teams.

The rescue operation highlighted the coordination amongst various responding units, which included call-outs from the Þjórsá region in the west to Skaftártungum, encompassing multiple snow vehicle crews in South Iceland. Upon arrival, the first responders quickly assessed the situation and determined that access to the skiers would not be obstructed, confirming that the individuals had indeed taken refuge in the emergency shelter built by the Icelandic Search and Rescue Association, now part of Landsbjörg following various organizational mergers.

This incident underscores the importance of the emergency communication systems in outdoor activities, especially during adverse weather conditions. It also illustrates the readiness and effectiveness of Iceland's rescue services in responding to crises in remote areas, ensuring the safety of outdoor enthusiasts who may find themselves in precarious situations during their adventures in Iceland's wilderness.

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