Ongoing Land Uplift and Magma Accumulation Under Svartsengi
There is no ongoing eruption in Iceland, but there is an increased possibility of an eruption in the Reykjanes Peninsula area. The town of Grindavík is open for visitors. However, it has been greatly affected by earthquakes and volcanic activity. Affected areas have been fenced off. Do note that hiking outside of areas marked „safe“ is considered dangerous due to unmapped crevasses.
Land uplift and magma accumulation beneath Svartsengi continue, though the pace has slowed slightly in recent weeks. As magma continues to accumulate, the likelihood of another eruption increases. It is uncertain whether there will be significant seismic activity before the next eruption. .Seismic activity in Sundhnúksgígaröðin has been relatively steady in February, with around five earthquakes per day. More detailed information is available at the Icelandic Meteorological Office.
In the event of an eruption, an alarm will be sounded in the area to signal evacuation. Please note the nearest and quickest way out of town. Escape routes are marked. Scientists state that eruption might occur without any warning.
- 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.
- Keflavik International Airport Not Affected by Volcanic Eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula
- Information for travellers can be found on the Icelandic Tourist Board website.
- 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 at 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. They are constantly monitoring the country’s volcanoes and providing real-time updates to the authorities, allowing them to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions.
Furthermore, Iceland has a well-developed emergency response system in place for volcanic eruptions. This includes evacuation plans, shelters for displaced individuals, and communication strategies to keep the public informed about potential risks and safety measures. The government also conducts regular drills and simulations to ensure that all involved parties are familiar with their roles and responsibilities during an eruption.
In addition to being prepared for volcanic activity, Iceland is also highly equipped to handle other natural disasters such as earthquakes, avalanches, and storms. The country has strict building codes and infrastructure regulations in place to withstand these events.
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