Iceland’s Meteorological Office updates hazard assessment amid seismic activity on Reykjanes Peninsula

Iceland’s Meteorological Office has updated its hazard assessment concerning seismic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula. While the overall risk assessment remains largely unchanged, there are indications that land uplift has resumed in Svartsengi.

The current hazard assessment notes that the threat of ash from potential eruptions has decreased. Eruption activity continues to diminish, though two vents appear to remain active. The lava flow to the north of the vents is expanding and thickening. According to the Meteorological Office, the ongoing lava flow does not pose a risk to infrastructure.

GPS measurements suggest a renewed uplift in Svartsengi. It was also noted that the lava flow from the Sundhnúkur volcanic system is decreasing, indicating that magma inflow into the collection area beneath Svartsengi is outpacing the surface lava flow during the current eruption. This trend mirrors the activity following the last eruption.

In addition, seismic activity has continued to decrease significantly in recent days. However, strong winds may influence the sensitivity of the seismic network in detecting smaller tremors. Residents in the area, including the capital region, may experience volcanic ash today.

The next hazard assessment will be updated on September 10.