Flateyri
Flateyri is a village in the
Westfjords, located on a narrow sandspit
at the northern shore of
Önundarfjörður.
The village has a population of around 300 people and forms part of
Ísafjörður.
Flateyri has a long history as a fishing village and has for centuries
been one of the most important settlements in the fjord.
Its natural harbour provided ideal conditions for fishing and trade,
laying the foundation for a strong maritime community.
The village is built on low-lying land, which has also made it vulnerable
to powerful natural forces, particularly avalanches descending from the
mountains above the settlement.
The Flateyri Avalanche of 1995
In October 1995, a devastating
avalanche struck Flateyri,
resulting in the tragic loss of 20 lives.
The disaster had a profound impact on the local community
and deeply affected the entire nation.
The avalanche marked a turning point in Icelandic avalanche safety
and led to major improvements in hazard assessment and land-use planning
in avalanche-prone areas.
Safety measures
Following the disaster, extensive protective barriers were constructed
above the village.
These defenses have since proven their value and have at least once
successfully protected Flateyri from another avalanche.
Rising above the village is
Eyrarfjall,
reaching a height of approximately 660 metres.
Two major avalanche paths,
Innra-Bæjargil and
Skollahvilft,
descend from the mountain toward the settlement.
Two guiding dams have been built above the village to divert avalanches
away from residential areas and critical infrastructure.
Flateyri today
Today, Flateyri is a vibrant coastal village known for its strong sense
of community, cultural events and historic buildings.
Its scenic surroundings within Önundarfjörður make it a popular stop
for travellers exploring the Westfjords.
Flateyri stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and unity — a community
that has rebuilt itself through strength, cooperation and respect for
the forces of nature.
Flateyri liggur við Önundarfjörð.