Icelandic Government advice following a volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula

• Risk to populated areas and critical infrastructure considered low
• No disruptions to international aviation
• Any attempts to visit the site of the eruption are strongly discouraged
• Volcanic activity follows considerable seismic activity over the past few days
• The fissure is close to the site where there have been two similar eruptions in the past two years

Today, at 16:40 GMT, a volcanic eruption started when lava began flowing from a ground fissure measuring about one kilometer long, between Litli-Hrútur peak and Mt. Keilir on the Reykjanes peninsula. The site of the eruption is close to where similar eruptions have occurred twice in the past two years.

There are no disruptions to flights to and from Iceland and international flight corridors remain open. Due to the location of the eruption, there is a low threat to populated areas or critical infrastructure.

Please be advised that this eruption is releasing considerable toxic gases and people are strongly advised against visiting the site of the eruption while responders and scientists assess the situation.

This eruption follows intense seismic activity over the past few days, and is classified as a fissure eruption (often referred to as Icelandic-type), which does not usually result in large explosions or significant production of ash dispersed into the stratosphere.

The response is being led by the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management of the national police in cooperation with the Icelandic Meteorological Office and University of Iceland. Latest information on the eruption can be found on the website of the Icelandic Met Office as well as its Twitter page.

Any attempts to visit the site of the eruption are strongly discouraged. When and if conditions allow, instructions on possibilities to view the site of the eruption will be given by the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management.