At 21:26 on August 22, 2024, a volcanic eruption occurred near Sundhnuksgigar, approximately 6 to 7 kilometers north of Grindavík in the southwest of Iceland. This eruption took place in almost the same location as the previous eruption. It marks the sixth eruption in a series of volcanic activities that began late last year.
In response to this eruption, the Icelandic Civil Protection and Emergency Management Agency has raised the danger level to “Emergency Level,” the highest of the three levels.
Authorities are currently investigating the scale and damage of the eruption. While the eruption is larger than the one that occurred at the end of May this year, the situation has calmed since it began yesterday. No human casualties have been reported at this time. Additionally, evacuations have already been completed for the nearby town of Grindavík, the Blue Lagoon spa, and the Svartsengi geothermal power plant, all of which are currently closed.
Access to the area around the eruption site is restricted by authorities. Approaching the site or stopping on nearby roads, especially those between Reykjavík and Keflavík Airport, to observe the volcanic activity is strongly discouraged, as it could hinder emergency vehicle operations and pose a risk of traffic accidents.
As of now, there is no impact on Keflavík International Airport due to the eruption, and flights are expected to operate as usual. However, please check the latest flight information through the airport’s website or your airline.
The situation is rapidly changing, so please stay informed by checking updates from relevant authorities and the media.
Useful Links:
• Icelandic Meteorological Office:
• Icelandic Civil Protection and Emergency Management Agency:
• Safe Travel Iceland:
• Keflavík International Airport:
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