Iceland: Volcanic eruption ongoing in the Reykjanes Peninsula as of early Nov. 21

An eruption occurred in the Reykjanes Peninsula near the Sundhnuksgigar crater row around 23:14 Nov. 20 following increased seismic activity. Lava is flowing west towards Grindavikurvegur. A state of emergency is in place.

Authorities have evacuated the Blue Lagoon Hotel and Spa and the town of Grindavik. Only around 50-60 houses in Grindavik were occupied in recent nights. Many of Grindavik's 4,000 residents have not returned to the town since it was first evacuated in November 2023. Defensive barriers have been built around key infrastructure since eruptive activity began 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 lava flows.

Depending on the development of volcanic activity, officials may expand evacuation orders and close roads in the region 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 occurs and winds direct volcanic material in the general direction of the airport; however, previous recent eruptive episodes in recent months have had little impact on flight operations at the airport.