The Fjarðarheiði mountain pass road leading to Seyðisfjörður in East Iceland reopened on 15 October 2026 at 17:46 local time, according to Vegagerðin (the Icelandic Road Administration). The route had previously been classified as impassable due to severe weather (Ófært – Óveður) and is now listed as Hálkublettir, meaning localised icy patches remain on the road surface. No further comment has been issued by the road administration.
Why this matters for photographers
The Fjarðarheiði pass is the only road access to Seyðisfjörður, a popular destination for photographers in East Iceland and a regular stop on longer trips around the island. Mid-October conditions on this route can change rapidly, and an icy-patches classification means the road is passable but requires care, particularly in low light or during early-morning shoots. Photographers travelling to Seyðisfjörður this week should factor in the surface conditions when planning arrival times.
What photographers should do
- Check the current road status on the Vegagerðin website or the 512 app immediately before setting out, as conditions on mountain passes can change within hours.
- Ensure your rental vehicle is fitted with winter tyres and, if available, consider four-wheel drive for added stability on icy sections of the pass.
- Allow extra travel time and avoid the pass in darkness if you are unfamiliar with the route — conditions are likely to be worse overnight when temperatures drop.
For full guidance, see our Seyðisfjörður Photography Guide — East Iceland’s Hidden Gem.
Source: Vegagerðin — https://www.road.is/travel-info/road-conditions-and-weather/