Almannavarna

Almannavarnir, commonly translated as civil protection, is the Icelandic national framework for handling emergencies and disasters. The system covers prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery, aiming to minimize loss of life and property and to facilitate rapid return to normal conditions.

The organization is a cross-sector system that includes national authorities, regional and local authorities, emergency services, the police, coast guard, health services, and volunteer organizations such as search-and-rescue teams. A national coordinating body oversees planning and incident management, and regional and municipal units carry out local preparedness and response tasks.

The functions of Almannavarnir include risk assessment, development of contingency and evacuation plans, public warning and information dissemination, sheltering and evacuation operations, crisis management, and recovery and rebuilding advice. It maintains emergency information channels and conducts training, exercises, and public education.

History and context: the need for civil protection has grown with Iceland’s exposure to natural hazards, including volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, ash clouds, severe weather, and floods. The Almannavarnir framework has evolved to coordinate between government agencies and municipalities, and to integrate international cooperation during larger events or regional disasters.

Legal basis: the system is established through national laws and regulations governing civil protection and emergency management.