A new fissure eruption started on Reykjanes Peninsula on November 20, just before midnight, by Sundhnúksgígar crater, marking the seventh eruption in the area since December 2023. Fortunately, Iceland is a very vast country and the rest of Iceland was unaffected by the seismic activity and continues to welcome visitors.

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 normally.

Since February 24, 2021, scientists at the Icelandic Meteorological Office have been carefully monitoring increased seismic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula, which is considered a possible precursor to a longer period of volcanic eruptions in the area. This development resulted in a series of on- and off-going eruptions, on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Volcanic activity has recently returned when lava flow resumed in the area. All residents had previously been evacuated from the town of Grindavík located near the eruption site. Iceland generally remains unaffected, and daily life outside of Grindavík proceeds as normal.

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, ranging from minor tremors to significant earthquakes, are a characteristic feature of Iceland’s geology. 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.

The Icelandic Met Office, in collaboration with the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management and a team of scientists from the University of Iceland, is actively monitoring the situation and thoroughly analyzing any unfolding developments. Iceland is no stranger to volcanic activity. Six eruptions have occurred on the Reykjanes Peninsula in the last three years. 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.

Since earthquakes began in late October 2023, you might be wondering whether it’s safe to visit Iceland. Scientists at the Icelandic Meteorological Office are closely monitoring earthquakes near Grindavík on the Reykjanes peninsula and any irregular activity will be reported promptly. Fortunately, Iceland is a very vast country and the rest of Iceland is unaffected by the seismic activity and continues to welcome visitors.

The Blue Lagoon is closed. Since the situation remains dynamic and with your safety and comfort in mind, we have come up with alternative options such as the Sky Lagoon, Hvammsvik Geothermal Baths or our buggy tour. We are very used to dealing with uncertainty in Iceland when it comes to the weather and nature. Your safety and overall experience is the most important thing to us. The Icelandic authorities have asserted that these earthquakes aren’t dangerous. Flights to Iceland, along with the Ring Road, the main route around the country are unaffected. This means you can go ahead with your trip in Iceland.

You can read more about our extended travel insurance here and our book and travel with confidence policy.

Updated: 22 November, 2024