Volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
A new eruption started on the Reykjanes Peninsula Sundhnúkur at 23:14 on November 20th. (Wednesday evening). This eruption is the seventh in the area this year. The fissure is around three kilometres in length, and the edge of the lava flow is approximately a few hundred meters from Grindavíkurvegur („Lavaroad“).
There is no danger in the area and Keflavik International Airport is not affected. The wind direction is quite favourable, as northerly winds are expected over the next few days. Therefore, it is likely that the gas pollution will move southwards and out to sea. Grindavík has already been evacuated, so the gas pollution should not pose a threat to people. The evacuation of Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon went very smoothly, around 50 to 60 houses were occupied overnight. There was no immediate danger and the residents were well-versed in how evacuations were carried out.
What We Know:
- Location of the eruption: Sundhnukar.
- Air traffic to and from Iceland is operating normally, and Iceland remains a safe destination.
- The eruption’s effects are localized to the eruption site with road closures and do not threaten people.
- All services in Iceland are operating as usual.
- Keflavik International Airport Not Affected by Volcanic Eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula
- Information for travelers can be found on the Icelandic Tourist Board website.
The Grindavik town was evacuated and people were not in danger. None of the eruptions for the last months have had an impact on travel to and from Iceland and none of them has caused harm to people.
Flights to and from Iceland operate on schedule, and disruption to flight traffic is considered highly unlikely.
Updated news for travellers can be found here:
Iceland Tourist Board website and www.visiticeland.com
Iceland is highly prepared
Iceland is no stranger to volcanic activity and experiences an average volcanic event every five years. Icelandic authorities and the public are highly prepared for such events, and Iceland has one of the world’s most effective volcanic preparedness measures. Iceland’s geoscientists possess vast experience in dealing with volcanic activities.
This map shows the location of Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
More information:
- The Icelandic MET office: Information on the seismic activity and development of events
- The Icelandic Road Administration: Information on road conditions and closures in the Reykjanes region
- Safetravel: Updates on safety for travellers in Iceland
- The Icelandic National Broadcasting Service: News coverage
- Visit Reykjanes: Updates from the region
- Visit Iceland – www.visiticeland.is
- Isavia – flight to and from Iceland
- The Icelandic Road Administration: Information on road conditions and closures in the Reykjanes region.
- www.government.is/press for media inquiries – also email address press@government.is