Navigating Seismic Activity, Volcanic Eruptions, and Travel Advisories

Iceland is currently experiencing heightened geological activity. Authorities have been closely monitoring seismic events on the Reykjanes Peninsula, southwest of Reykjavik, since November 2023.

On April 3rd, the capital city was shaken by two powerful earthquakes, with their epicentre located in the Kleifarvatn area. Within a 24-hour period on April 7th, over 550 earthquakes were recorded. According to Iceland’s Met Office, this activity is likely triggered by earlier seismic and volcanic events, representing classic trigger quakes caused by stress release in the Earth's crust.

This activity is part of a pattern of tectonic movements across the Reykjanes Peninsula, where Keflavik International Airport is situated. The most recent significant volcanic eruption occurred on April 1st, marking the eleventh such event since 2021. The eruptive fissure has extended, and significant fault movements have been confirmed within the town of Grindavík.

The Blue Lagoon, a popular thermal tourist attraction, temporarily closed but has since reopened. The Foreign Office has issued a warning regarding the recent volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula. While Keflavik International Airport and its access road remain unaffected and operational, further eruptions are anticipated. The Icelandic government is closely monitoring the situation, and infrastructure is designed to be robust. However, unforeseen events can still pose risks to travel plans.

Regarding travel, the international airport is currently operating normally. Passengers are advised that they may not be able to change flights without penalty.

The 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano caused widespread disruption to European aviation. However, the current situation differs significantly. The Eyjafjallajokull eruption involved a glacier, leading to the formation of fine ash that posed a threat to aircraft. The current eruptions do not produce the same type of ash. Additionally, new guidelines allow aircraft to fly with small amounts of volcanic ash present.

For those on package holidays, holiday companies can continue to operate as usual unless the Foreign Office advises against travel. The exception is for those with bookings at the Blue Lagoon, which has experienced intermittent closures. Standard travel insurance typically does not cover cancellations due to a "disinclination to travel."

The Icelandic authorities are well-equipped to handle seismic events, with robust monitoring and emergency systems. A package holiday would provide the option to cancel for a full refund if necessary. The new eruption could potentially become an attraction in its own right.