Iceland volcano eruption: Travel advice and Blue Lagoon update

A new 3-kilometer crack has formed on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

A volcano in Iceland has erupted for the seventh time since December, sending red lava flowing from a 3-kilometer crack on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

The volcano began erupting at 11:14 PM last night (Wednesday) with minimal notice. The Sundhnúkur fissure stretches about three kilometers in length.

According to Iceland's meteorological office, the recent activity is expected to be significantly less intense than the eruption that took place in August.

Overall, this eruption is slightly less significant than the one that took place in May, as well as the previous eruption, according to Magnús Tumi Guðmundsson, a geophysics professor who took a flight over the area with the Civil Protection Agency to observe the situation. He shared this information with the national broadcaster RUV.

Guests were removed from the Blue Lagoon thermal spa, which is among Iceland's most popular tourist destinations, and it is currently shut down.

Even though it's located only 20 kilometers north of the eruption area, Keflavik International Airport, the primary airport in Iceland, is still operational, with flights continuing to arrive and take off.

If you're considering a trip to or from the impacted region, here’s everything you need to know about traveling to Iceland right now.

How Long Will Iceland's Volcano Eruption Last?

The Icelandic Meteorological Office provided an update to the public regarding the Reykjanes volcano early this morning.

This eruption seems to be less powerful compared to the recent events.

In a recent announcement, they mentioned: "It looks like the volcanic eruption has reached its peak. The crack has stopped growing, and according to data from the Icelandic Meteorological Office, there are no signs suggesting that the activity will intensify."

Prior to the eruptions this year, the Svartsengi volcanic system located north of Grindavik had been inactive for roughly 780 years. It's situated just a few kilometers to the west of Fagradalsfjall, which had been quiet for 6,000 years until it became active again in March 2021.

Has Grindavík Been Evacuated?

Indeed, the nearby town of Grindavík has been cleared of its residents.

"According to Magnús Tumi, Grindavík isn't in as much jeopardy as it may seem, and it's improbable that this fissure will extend any further, although we can't completely dismiss any possibilities."

The frequent volcanic eruptions near Grindavík, located roughly 50 kilometers southwest of Reykjavik and home to around 3,800 residents, have caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. As a result, many locals have had to leave the town to ensure their safety.

In December, the residents of Grindavík were forced to leave their homes due to several earthquakes that caused significant fissures in the ground, stretching between the town and Sýlingarfell, a nearby small mountain to the north.

"Iceland Volcano Eruption Is No Tourist Attraction"

Visitors frequently seek out the awe-inspiring sights of powerful volcanic eruptions.

In the past, officials have advised tourists to avoid Reykjanes.

"This isn't a spot for tourists, and you need to observe it from a considerable distance," stated Vidir Reynisson, the head of Iceland’s Civil Protection and Emergency Management, in an interview with the national broadcaster RUV.

Are Flights To Iceland Cancelled?

Even though there are worries about how the eruption might affect travel, Keflavik Airport, which is close by, remains operational, with flights arriving and leaving as scheduled.

The Icelandic airport authority, ISAVIA, recommends that travelers keep an eye on flight updates here.

Volcanic eruptions can create significant risks for air travel because the ash that gets released into the air can lead to jet engine failures, harm flight control systems, and impair visibility.

The airport has mentioned before that they are familiar with volcanic activity and are adequately equipped to handle it, so there’s no need to shut the airport down.

Iceland's Civil Protection and Emergency Management noted that the country is familiar with volcanic eruptions, typically facing one approximately every five years.

Iceland's government and its citizens are very well equipped to handle these situations, and the country boasts some of the best volcanic readiness plans in the world.

Iceland's geoscientists have a wealth of experience managing volcanic activity.

In April 2010, a significant volcanic eruption in Iceland severely impacted air travel between Europe and North America. The volcano released around 250 million cubic meters of ash, forcing the cancellation of over 100,000 flights over the span of eight days.

Despite concerns that it might happen again, the Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted in a way that led to an enormous ash cloud. A glacier above the volcano caused meltwater to cool the lava quickly, resulting in tiny particles being formed. During the eruption, steam propelled these particles into the atmosphere, where they were blown across to Europe.

There has been no effect on air travel from any of the recent eruptions.

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is now more equipped to handle a significant volcanic ash incident.

"In case of a volcanic eruption and the formation of an ash cloud, the agency will collaborate with various aviation stakeholders to evaluate the effects on air travel and provide appropriate guidance," states a message on EASA's website from the previous year.

Is Traveling To Iceland Safe?

Absolutely, Iceland continues to be a secure place to visit.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office announced:

Iceland is well-acquainted with volcanic eruptions, facing one about every five years. Both the government and the people of Iceland are well-equipped to handle these situations, boasting some of the best volcanic preparedness strategies in the world. The country's geoscientists have extensive experience when it comes to managing volcanic activity.

Travelers are encouraged to avoid Grindavík and to adhere to local guidelines. For the most up-to-date information, check the Icelandic Met Office and Safe Travel Iceland.

On the whole, Iceland is a very secure place to visit right now.

Keflavik International Airport and the route leading to it are functioning normally and remain untouched.

Countries have not given travel advisories against visiting Iceland, so airlines and travel agencies continue to function normally. As a result, travelers who decide to cancel their reservations are not entitled to a refund by default.

In a past eruption, Jonathan Frankham, the general manager of World Nomads, a travel insurance company, suggested that travelers who are worried about their insurance and considering cancelling their trips should use their judgment and make smart travel decisions.

It’s essential to understand that insurance policies bought after the earthquakes and the resulting volcanic eruption are probably not going to provide coverage, as these events are now considered 'known.' However, we suggest reviewing your policy documents for specific information.

He recommended that travelers reach out to their airline or travel agency for help and the most up-to-date details.

Is The Blue Lagoon Open Now?

The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, one of the most popular tourist spots in Iceland, was cleared out when the volcanic eruption started yesterday (November 20).

The spa remains closed today, November 21, based on information from the official website. They will review the situation later today to determine when it can reopen safely.

It states: "As a result of a volcanic eruption that started in Sundhnúksgígar on November 20, we decided to evacuate and temporarily shut down all our facilities as a safety precaution."

The Blue Lagoon will be shut down today, Thursday, November 21. We will evaluate the situation as the day progresses.

The management of Blue Lagoon announced that they would reach out to all customers who have made reservations. Those who wish to modify or cancel their bookings can do so through the official website.

Check out the video above to witness the Reykjanes volcano erupting.