Iceland: Volcanic eruption ongoing in the Reykjanes Peninsula as of March 22 /update 2

The volcanic eruption that began in the Reykjanes Peninsula late March 16 is ongoing as of March 22. The eruption occurred at around 20:23 March 16 between Hagafell and Stora Skogfell in the Sundhnukur crater row following an increase in seismic activity. As of March 22, the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) has advised that eruptive activity is ongoing but relatively stable, and eruptive vents remain in the same locations. The propagation of lava has slowed significantly since the initial eruption after spreading mainly southward and westward from the 3 km (1.9 mile) fissure during the first few hours of the eruption. Lava continues to flow southward on top of the lava that was generated during the first few hours of the eruption but at a much slower rate. Gas emissions and seismic activity have also decreased in recent days. According to the latest Hazrad map issued by the IMO, the risk from volcanic activity remains very high (the highest level on a five-tier scale) in areas around the eruptive fissure in the Sundhnukur crater row, high in areas to the west and to the south around Grindavik, considerable in areas to the east of the fissure, and moderate in areas to the southeast.

Authorities declared a state of emergency due to the volcanic eruption March 17. The Blue Lagoon Hotel and Spa closed late March 16 and evacuation orders have been issued for residents in Grindavik; around 700 people were evacuated from the Blue Lagoon and Grindavik immediately after the eruption began. All roads to and from Grindavik and several other areas near the area of recent volcanic activity remain closed. Defensive barriers have been built around key infrastructure since eruptive activity began occurring in the area in December 2023 and are expected to prevent some roads and pipelines, as well as much of Grindavik, from being heavily impacted by the lava flows.

Due to the ongoing eruption, officials may expand evacuation orders and road closures at short notice. Eruptive activity at the volcano could prompt transport disruptions in the surrounding area. Lava flows could block highways and damage structures. Ashfall may reduce visibility, causing hazardous driving conditions, and could also pose an increased threat to air traffic; flight disruptions are possible at Keflavik International Airport (KEF) if sustained eruptive activity continues and winds direct volcanic material in the general direction of the airport.