Another volcanic eruption is underway in the south of Iceland
A new fissure eruption started on the Reykjanes Peninsula in the south of Iceland, North-East from Sýlingarfell, today, on May 29, 2024, marking the fifth eruption in the area since December of 2023. NB! update 30.may. However, the eruption began to slow down the same evening, with its activity now reduced and concentrated in the northern part of the fissure.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Air traffic to and from Iceland operates 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.
The Icelandic Meteorological Office, the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management, and a team of scientists from the University of Iceland diligently monitor the situation and analyze developments.
- The Icelandic MET office: Latest information on the seismic activity and development of events.
All Icelandic airports are open, and all flights to Iceland are operating on schedule. The impact of these types of fissure volcanic eruptions impact is limited to specific, localized areas near the eruption site. Notably, the previous eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula have not disrupted air travel to and from the country in any way.
- Iceland Ministry for Foreign Affairs: FAQ regarding flights and other info
MONITORING AND PREPAREDNESS
A global team of geoscientists meticulously monitors the area, backed by Iceland's advanced volcanic preparedness and real-time surveillance systems. Our priority is safety, ensuring that life and tourism in Iceland proceed smoothly. For a detailed look into the recent volcanic activities and their safety implications, Dr. Matthew Roberts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office offers insights through an informative video. See link below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QA3-BXYuYrw
VOLCANIC ACTIVITY ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA
Since October last year, The Icelandic Meteorological Office has observed increased geophysical activity in the area. This activity has led to repeated volcanic eruptions close to the town of Grindavík. The town has been evacuated with brief intermissions since November 10th to guarantee the safety of residents. The eruption does not pose an immediate threat to people, and no further evacuations are necessary at this time.
Iceland is well-acquainted with volcanic activity, having experienced three previous eruptions nearby on the Reykjanes Peninsula in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Icelandic authorities and the public are thoroughly prepared for such events, and the country boasts some of the world's most sophisticated volcanic preparedness protocols. Iceland's geoscientists are extensively experienced in managing volcanic activity.
More information:
- The Icelandic Road Administration: Information on road conditions and closures in the Reykjanes region
- Safetravel: Updates on safety
- The Icelandic National Broadcasting Service: News coverage
Visit Reykjanes: Updates from the region