Location: Grindavik, Reykjanes Peninsula, southwest Iceland
Event: Earthquakes and indications of volcanic activity have increased in the Reykjanes Peninsula southwest of Reykjavik.
The National Commissioner of the Icelandic Police declared a Civil Protection Alert Phase following an intense earthquake wave on November 10 at Sundhnúki, north of Grindavik. This activity could indicate magma movement and a volcanic eruption in the area near Mt. Thorbjörn in the area of the Svartsengi power plant and the Blue Lagoon. The seismic activity created ruptures in the primary road to Grindavik (Rt 43 – Grindavíkurvegur). Authorities suggest using Suðurstrandarvegur and Nesvegur out of Grindavik.
Flight operations at Keflavik International Airport have not been affected, though the Alert level has been raised to Orange.
If an eruption occurs, follow the instructions of Icelandic authorities. Volcanic hazards may include lava, toxic gases, and heavy smoke from fires ignited by lava. Do not walk on new lava – it may be only a thin crust with molten lava just beneath the surface. Commercially available face masks (e.g., dust masks, N95, or surgical/medical) offer no protection against volcanic gases that may accumulate in low lying areas.
Actions to Take:
- Monitor Iceland Civil Protection information about mass shelters and preparation at: Earthquakes in Reykjanes — Civil Protection (almannavarnir.is)
- Monitor volcanic activity and weather at: https://en.vedur.is/
- Follow recommendations by Icelandic Police, Icelandic Civil Defense (also at https://www.facebook.com/Almannavarnir/), and other authorities.
- Monitor local media outlets for updates (including online English language news outlet RUV (also at https://www.facebook.com/ruvenglish).
- Follow the latest alerts on https://safetravel.is/
Assistance
U.S. Embassy Reykjavik, Iceland
+354-595-2248 (after hours)
Contact Reykjavik Consular
https://is.usembassy.gov/
- State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
- Iceland Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
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