Iceland: Seismic activity reported as Grimsvötn volcano nears eruption June 22

Event

Scientists announced that, as of Monday, June 22, northern Iceland had witnessed more than 3000 tremors in three days, with three of them having a magnitude of 5 or higher. The tremors, which are focused 20 km (12 miles) north of Siglufjördur and 80 km (50 miles) north of Akureyri, are likely to continue in the near future. In addition, the scientists warned that the Grimsvötn volcano was likely to erupt soon. Grimsvötn last eruption in 2011 led to more than 900 flight cancellations in the United Kingdom and northern Europe, as well as causing localized flooding due to melting ice.

Localized transport disruptions are expected should Grimsvötn erupt, with a risk of wider disruptions depending on the size of the eruption.  

Advice

Those present in the affected area are advised to avoid the vicinity of the volcano, monitor the situation, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.