Iceland’s Waterways
Iceland is a country surrounded by water on all sides, making it a crucial location for maritime transportation and fishing industries. The waterways that Iceland comes in contact with are diverse, ranging from the North Atlantic Ocean to the Arctic Ocean and various seas in between. These waterways play a vital role in Iceland’s economy and environment.
The North Atlantic Ocean
The North Atlantic Ocean is the primary waterway that Iceland comes in contact with. The ocean is located to the west of Iceland and stretches from the American continent in the west to Europe and Africa in the east. The ocean has a significant impact on Iceland’s climate, as the warm Gulf Stream current flows past the country’s southern and western coasts, moderating the temperature and making it more habitable for humans.
The Arctic Ocean
To the north of Iceland lies the Arctic Ocean, which is the smallest and shallowest ocean in the world. The Arctic Ocean is a crucial waterway for Iceland, as it is home to the Arctic Circle, which is an important fishing ground for Icelandic fishermen. The Arctic Ocean is also essential for the country’s transportation industry, as it offers a shorter route to Asia from Europe, saving time and money.
The Norwegian Sea
Located to the east of Iceland is the Norwegian Sea. The Norwegian Sea is a vital waterway for Iceland’s fishing industry, as it is home to a significant amount of fish species that are commercially important. The sea is also essential for the country’s transportation industry, as ships traveling from Northern Europe to North America frequently pass through these waters.
The Greenland Sea
The Greenland Sea is located to the north of Iceland and is an important waterway for the country’s fishing industry. The sea is home to several fish species that are commercially important, such as cod, haddock, and halibut. The Greenland Sea is also a crucial location for scientific research, as it is one of the least studied oceans in the world.
The Denmark Strait
The Denmark Strait is a narrow channel of water that separates Iceland from Greenland. The strait is a critical route for ships traveling from Europe to North America, as it offers a shorter route than going around the southern tip of Greenland. The Denmark Strait is also an important location for ocean currents, as the cold Arctic waters flow southward through this channel.
The East Greenland Current
The East Greenland Current is a cold ocean current that flows southward along the east coast of Greenland. The current is crucial for Iceland’s fishing industry, as it carries fish larvae and other marine organisms that are vital to the country’s fish stocks. The current also plays a significant role in the country’s climate, as it brings cold, Arctic waters into the North Atlantic.
The Irminger Sea
The Irminger Sea is located to the south of Iceland and is an important waterway for the country’s fishing industry. The sea is home to several fish species that are commercially important, such as cod, haddock, and redfish. The Irminger Sea is also a crucial location for scientific research, as it is a significant location for the study of ocean currents and ocean-atmosphere interactions.
The Reykjanes Ridge
The Reykjanes Ridge is a submarine mountain range that runs diagonally across the North Atlantic Ocean, passing just south of Iceland. The ridge is a crucial location for Iceland’s geothermal energy industry, as it provides a natural source of heat for the country’s geothermal power plants.
The River Jökulsá á Fjöllum
The River Jökulsá á Fjöllum is a glacial river that flows from the Vatnajökull glacier in northeast Iceland. The river is famous for its spectacular waterfalls, such as Dettifoss, which are popular tourist destinations. The river is also an essential source of hydropower for the country, as it provides electricity for thousands of homes.
The River Jökulsárlón
The River Jökulsárlón is a glacial river that flows from the Vatnajökull glacier in southeast Iceland. The river flows into a lagoon of the same name, which is famous for its large icebergs that break off from the glacier and float in the water. The lagoon is a popular tourist destination and is also an important location for scientific research.
Conclusion: Iceland’s Vital Water Connections
Iceland’s waterways are a crucial aspect of the country’s economy and environment. The North Atlantic Ocean, Arctic Ocean, Norwegian Sea, Greenland Sea, Denmark Strait, East Greenland Current, Irminger Sea, Reykjanes Ridge, and glacial rivers all play a significant role in Iceland’s fishing, transportation, energy, tourism, and scientific industries. The country’s location at the crossroads of several oceans makes it a vital location for global trade and research.
