Reynisfjara landowners say safety plan was activated too late

Landowners at Reynisfjara say their beach safety plan was activated too late after dangerous conditions developed earlier than forecast, mbl.is reported.

The plan is triggered when wave height passes certain thresholds and there is a risk of flooding at the eastern end of the beach. It calls for a staffed checkpoint south of the turn-off to Garðar and a guard at the lower car park. Vehicle access to that car park is restricted, as is pedestrian access to the eastern beach ridge near the viewing platform and sign.

In a statement, the landowners said the closure and guard were not in place until about 3.30pm. They said they would learn from the delay and work to act sooner when similar conditions arise.

Visitors are asked to follow instructions from staff and obey signs. The landowners said people can watch the natural spectacle from a safe distance, higher up and farther west along the beach.