Rökfærslan

Rökfærslan is an Icelandic term that translates roughly to "smoke feeling" or "smoke sensation." It describes a peculiar atmospheric phenomenon that can occur in certain Icelandic landscapes, particularly in geothermal areas or regions with volcanic activity. The sensation is not necessarily related to the presence of visible smoke but rather a feeling in the air that is often described as being charged, heavy, or having a distinct, subtle odor reminiscent of smoke.

This phenomenon is often associated with changes in weather patterns and is sometimes perceived by locals as an indicator of approaching atmospheric shifts. It is not a scientifically defined meteorological term but rather a descriptive idiom rooted in local experience and observation. The feeling can be subtle and difficult to articulate, leading to its nuanced description. While not always present, rökfærslan is a recognized part of the sensory experience of living in or visiting certain parts of Iceland, contributing to the unique environmental awareness of its inhabitants.