Weather Alert: Reykjavik (Iceland), Increased Volcanic Activity

Location:  Grindavik, Reykjanes Peninsula, southwest Iceland 

Event:  The Icelandic Meteorological (Met) Office reported a new volcanic eruption started on March 16 at 8:23 p.m. between Stóra-Skógfell and Hagafell, north of Grindavik, which is 26 miles (42 km) due southwest of Reykjavik, on the Reykjanes Peninsula.  Iceland Civil Protection evacuated the area. The fissure is approximately 2.2 miles (3.6 km) from the Blue Lagoon. 

There are no current impacts to flight operations at Keflavik Airport (KEF).  Airlines will base their flight operation decisions on ash forecasts and other factors from the Icelandic Met Office and its partners.  Please consult airline or business websites for operating restrictions or evacuation plans. 

U.S. citizens are advised to monitor local news and government websites for detailed information and to follow Iceland Civil Protection instructions.   

Actions to Take: 

• Avoid the area. 
• Follow the instructions of Icelandic authorities, Icelandic Civil Defense (https://www.facebook.com/Almannavarnir/). 
• Monitor volcanic activity at: https://www.vedur.is/um-vi/frettir/jardskjalftahrina-nordan-vid-grindavik-hofst-i-nott,  https://en.vedur.is/ and https://en.vedur.is/about-imo/news/.  
• Monitor local media outlets for updates, including the online National Broadcasting service, RUV, (also at https://www.facebook.com/ruvenglish). 
• Follow the latest alerts on https://safetravel.is/ and @safetravel. 

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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