Icelandic Meteorological Office reports and updates

Sundhnukur Volcano Erupts in Iceland, State of Emergency Declared

Aug 23, 2024, 03:00 AM

A new volcanic eruption has occurred on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland, marking the sixth eruption in the region since December 2023. The eruption began at 9:26 PM local time on August 22, following a series of strong earthquakes. The Sundhnukur volcano has erupted, leading to the formation of a fissure approximately 4 kilometers long, spewing hot lava and lava fountains into the air. Authorities have declared a state of emergency and evacuated residents and tourists from nearby areas, including the town of Grindavik and the Blue Lagoon. A second fissure has also formed. Despite the dramatic nature of the eruption, there is no immediate danger to the surrounding communities.