Volcanic Activity in Reykjanes

Key takeaways:

• Volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula resumed at 9:46 AM on 1 April.
• Air traffic to and from Iceland remains unaffected during the eruption, and all services across the country continue to operate as usual.
• The eruption's impact are highly localized and pose no threat to people. However, the area remains closed to visitors for safety.

At around 9:45 on 1 April, an eruption started on the Sundhnúkar fissure just north of Grindavík. Earthquakes started in the area around 6:30 am, and the Blue Lagoon and the town of Grindavík were evacuated as a safety measure. The evacuations were successful, and there was no threat to the population.

An erupting fissure opened just north of Grindavík, is still extending and has extended through the berm, protecting the town. The area has been closed off and is completely closed until further notice. Gas pollution might form in isolated areas around the eruption depending on wind direction and is closely monitored.

Flight operations at the Keflavík International Airport are according to schedule. The eruption is still developing, and we will publish further information when it is gathered.

Infrastructure and preparedness:

All Icelandic infrastructure is designed and built with these geological factors in mind, and preparedness in the case of an eruption is undoubtedly one of the best in the world. Icelandic infrastructure is prepared and stress-tested to deal with natural catastrophes and is not likely to shut down in the event of an eruption.

Volcanic activity is a fact of life in Iceland, and Icelanders have learned to live with its drawbacks and considerable advantages, such as geothermal energy. 

All airports in Iceland are functioning normally and all flights to Iceland are operating on schedule. The impact of volcanic eruptions tends to be limited to specific, localized areas near the eruption site. Notably, previous eruptions in the Reykjanes Peninsula did not impact air travel to and from the country in any way. 

Monitoring and response:

The Icelandic Meteorological Office, The Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management, and a team of scientists from the University of Iceland closely monitor and analyzing developments relating seismic activities.

There is no way of accurately predicting whether, where, or when seismic activity may result in a volcanic eruption or the possible size of such an eruption, but they are closely monitored and constantly evaluated based on the best scientific data available.

Background and geological profile: 

Iceland is situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates diverge, making it one of the most active volcanic regions in the world. Regular seismic events are a characteristic feature of Icelandic geology, ranging from minor tremors to significant earthquakes. Seismic activity in Iceland is often due to magma movement beneath the earth's crust. It may sometimes result in magma seeking the easiest path to the surface and becoming a volcanic eruption.

Iceland is no stranger to volcanic activity, and there have been six eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. 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.

For the latest updates on the situation, please visit:

• The Icelandic Met Office
  
• Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management
  
• Icelandic Tourist Board
• SafeTravel
• Visit Iceland