July 16, 2025
Volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula
An eruption began on the Reykjanes Peninsula shortly before 4 AM on July 16th, in the Sundhnúkur fissure just north of Grindavík. Air traffic to and from Iceland operates normally, and the country remains a safe destination.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula resumed shortly before 4 AM on July 16th, on the Sundhnúkur crater row
- Air traffic to and from Iceland remains unaffected.
- The volcanic activity is highly localized and has no impact on infrastructure or attractions across the rest of Iceland.
An eruption began on the Reykjanes Peninsula shortly before 4 AM on July 16th, in the Sundhnúkur fissure just north of Grindavík. It followed a wave of seismic activity, triggered by magma intrusion, that started around midnight. In an abundance of caution, the town of Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon were successfully evacuated.
Travelers in the area are advised to monitor air quality, as gas pollution from the eruption site may occur. You can check current air quality conditions here. Please also note that the eruption area is closed to the public for safety reasons.
Air traffic to and from Iceland is unaffected, and Iceland remains open and safe for tourists. This volcanic activity is highly localized and has no impact on infrastructure or attractions across the rest of Iceland. Iceland authorities and the public are highly prepared for such events, and Iceland has one of the world's most effective volcanic preparedness measures.
Check out the latest updates at Safetravel.is.
INFRASTRUCTURE AND PREPAREDNESS
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 analyze developments relating seismic activities.
Volcanic activity is a natural part of life in Iceland, and the country is exceptionally well prepared to handle it. Icelandic infrastructure is designed and stress-tested with geology in mind, making it highly resilient during eruptions. Disruptions are uncommon, and systems remain functional even during volcanic events.
Airports across Iceland are operating normally, and all flights to and from the country remain on schedule. Eruptions are typically confined to specific, localized areas near the eruption site. Notably, previous eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula have had no impact on international air travel.
VOLCANIC ACTIVITY ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA
The Reykjanes Peninsula is no stranger to volcanic activity, with eight eruptions in the area since December 2023.
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.
For more details and the latest updates please visit
Visit Reykjanes: Updates regarding checkpoints and openings in the region
Safetravel.is: Updates on safety
The Icelandic Road Administration: Information on road conditions and closures in the Reykjanes region
The Icelandic National Broadcasting Service: News coverage
Icelandic MET office: Latest information on the seismic activity and development of events.
Iceland Ministry for Foreign Affairs: FAQ regarding flights and other info.
For press inquiries, please contact press@itb.is.