Svalbard Yellow rain warning for Longyearbyen on Saturday
Sysselmesteren (the Governor of Svalbard) reported on 30 October that the Norwegian Meteorological Institute has put out a yellow rain alert for Longyearbyen on Saturday. The institute expects heavy rain, with up to 18 millimetres in 24 hours. According to the Governor, this will affect travel in the terrain.
The Governor said that weeks of warm air, mostly above-freezing temperatures and precipitation, have reduced the stability of hillsides, so rockfalls and rockslides are more likely. On Thursday it banned entry and stays in some parts of Vei 300, and that ban remains in force until further notice.
The Governor added that ground movement may occur elsewhere in the mountains. For the coming days it advised people to stay away from steep slopes and areas where debris could run out.
The weather also affects glaciers. The Governor advises against entering or lingering in ice caves until temperatures have stayed below zero for a lasting period.
It asked anyone planning a trip this weekend to choose carefully and safely.