Holidaymakers in Iceland warned of cancellations, sudden flooding and poisonous gas after earthquake

The eruptions have affected the town of Grindavik and the area to the north of it with roads being closed this morning between Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon due to lava spreading nearby.

The eruption started on Wednesday evening and has formed a fissure, three kilometres in length.

Whilst this eruption is smaller than the last one in the area, the FCDO advised Britons: "It is likely there will be further eruptions in this location. Monitor local media for updates and always follow the authorities’ advice on travel to the area."

The Government of Iceland monitors seismic and volcanic eruptions but the FCDO has warned holidaymakers that several events can be unprecedented.

It wrote: "Not all events can be anticipated and can pose risks to your travel plans including travel delays."

The area has experienced a series of mini earthquake eruptions too, at around a magnitude of two.

The FCDO added holidaymakers journeys could be cancelled "due to rock falls and landslides, sudden flooding and poisonous volcanic gases near eruption sites.

"Keflavik International Airport and the road to it is unaffected and operating normally. The capital city, Reykjavik, and the rest of Iceland are not affected by these recent eruptions."

With the road closures, the FCDO has advised Britons of the driving conditions in Iceland.

It said: "Some main routes can be gravel or dirt tracks. Roads can be narrower than you might be familiar with. Some routes, including bridges, are only a single lane with passing areas. On gravel and loose surfaces, reduce your speed."

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Iceland has become a key tourist attraction in the past few years for holidaymakers, with 2.4 million tourists expected to have visited the country by the end of the year, an increase of 13 per cent from last year.

But before a holiday in Iceland, it's important to consult the FCDO's up-to-date information on the destination.

This will include the latest guidance on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, regional risks (including where the FCDO advises against travel), health and getting help.

This is particularly key for Iceland which with the recent eruption has experienced 10 eruptions since January 2020.