Volcano activity information

Volcanic activity has resumed on Reykjanes Peninsula


November 21, 2024

A new fissure eruption started on Reykjanes Peninsula on November 20, 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 impact is highly localized and poses no threat to people. However, the area remains closed to visitors for safety.

  • 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.

The Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management and the local authorities have activated all necessary security measures and the area around Grindavík has been safely and successfully evacuated.

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 travelers throughout this period. Iceland is well-acquainted with volcanic activity, and Icelandic authorities and the public are thoroughly prepared for such events.

 

More information:

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