Volcanic activity has ended on the Reykjanes Peninsula
Updated August 5, 2025
The volcanic eruption that began on July 16 at the Sundhnúkur crater row is now officially over, as of August 5. Currently, there is no ongoing volcanic eruption in Iceland.
We remind those visiting the eruption site to keep a safe distance, as walking on new lava is extremely dangerous — the surface can collapse without warning, exposing glowing lava beneath.
---
An eruption began on the Reykjanes Peninsula shortly before 4 AM on July 16th, in the Sundhnúkur fissure just north of Grindavík. It followed a wave of seismic activity, triggered by magma intrusion, that started around midnight. As a precaution, the town of Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon were safely evacuated. Both have since reopened to the public. This was the eighth eruption in the area since December 2023, and it was declared officially over on August 5.
Air traffic to and from Iceland continues to operate normally, and the country remains a safe destination.
Infrastructure and Preparedness
The Icelandic Meteorological Office, The Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management, and a team of scientists from the University of Iceland closely monitor and analyze developments relating seismic activities.
Volcanic activity is a natural part of life in Iceland, and the country is exceptionally well prepared to handle it. Icelandic infrastructure is designed and stress-tested with geology in mind, making it highly resilient during eruptions. Disruptions are uncommon, and systems remain functional even during volcanic events.
Airports across Iceland are operating normally, and all flights to and from the country remain on schedule. Eruptions are typically confined to specific, localized areas near the eruption site. Notably, previous eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula have had no impact on international air travel.
Volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula
The Reykjanes Peninsula is no stranger to volcanic activity, with nine eruptions in the area since December 2023.
For a detailed look into the recent volcanic activities and their safety implications, Dr. Matthew Roberts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office offers insights through an informative video.
More information:
- Visit Reykjanes: Updates regarding checkpoints and openings in the region
- Safetravel: Updates on safety
- The Icelandic Road Administration: Information on road conditions and closures in the Reykjanes region
- The Icelandic National Broadcasting Service: News coverage
- The Icelandic MET office: Latest information on the seismic activity and development of events.
- Iceland Ministry for Foreign Affairs: FAQ regarding flights and other info
For press inquiries, please contact [email protected].