November 20, 2024

Volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula

A new fissure eruption started on Reykjanes Peninsula by Sundhnúksgígar crater on November 20, at 11:14 PM. Air traffic to and from Iceland operates normally, and the country remains a safe destination.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Air traffic to and from Iceland operates normally, and the country remains a safe destination.
The eruption's effects are very localized, with no threat to people and only road closures.
All services in Iceland are operating as usual.
The eruption is significantly smaller than the last eruption in the area.

A new fissure eruption started on Reykjanes Peninsula on November 20, at 11:14 PM, by Sundhnúksgígar crater, marking the seventh eruption since December 2023.

The eruption's activity appears to have peaked. The fissure seems to have stopped expanding, and based on measurements from the Icelandic Meteorological Office, there are no indications that the activity will increase.

This eruption is significantly smaller than the last eruption, which began on August 22. The estimated lava flow rate is about 1,300 m³/s, compared to approximately 2,500 m³/s during the August eruption.

MONITORING AND PREPAREDNESS

Iceland is no stranger to seismic and volcanic activity, and authorities and the public are highly prepared for such events . The well-being of residents and visitors is the utmost priority, and Icelandic infrastructure is designed and built to withstand seismic events like these. The country boasts some of the world's most sophisticated volcanic preparedness protocols to protect people and infrastructure, and Iceland's geoscientists are extensively experienced in managing volcanic activity.

VOLCANIC ACTIVITY ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA

For the past few years, the Reykjanes Peninsula has witnessed a surge in seismic activity, including ten volcanic eruptions. Despite this, Iceland has remained a safe and open destination for travellers throughout this period. Iceland is well-acquainted with volcanic activity, and Icelandic authorities and the public are thoroughly prepared for such events.

The activity has led to repeated volcanic eruptions close to the town of Grindavík. The town has been evacuated with brief intermissions to guarantee the safety of residents. The eruption does not threaten people, and no further evacuations are necessary at this time.

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.