VOLCANIC ACTIVITY HAS RESUMED ON REYKJANES PENINSULA
A new fissure eruption started on Reykjanes Peninsula on November 20, 2024, at 11:14 PM by Sundhnúksgígar crater, marking the seventh eruption in the area since December 2023.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Air traffic to and from Iceland operates normally, and the country 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.
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.
- The Icelandic MET office: Latest information on the seismic activity and development of events.
- 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
- Live camera feed: from the volcanic eruption sites
For press inquiries, please contact press@itb.is.
If you have booked a tour with us or are considering doing so and have any concerns about the recent volcanic eruptions in Iceland, please feel free to reach out to us at EVTravel.is. Your safety and confidence in traveling with us are our highest priorities, and we’re here to provide clear, up-to-date information. While current assessments suggest no impact on travel plans, please rest assured that we will contact you promptly if we anticipate any changes that could affect your tour. Iceland’s ever-changing landscapes remain as captivating as ever, and we are committed to ensuring your experience is both safe and unforgettable.
