Britons warned 'stay away from the area' as European destination faces series of volcanic eruptions

Reykjavik, Iceland / Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula volcanic eruption

Britons have been issued a fresh travel warning

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Anna Barry

By Anna Barry


Published: 24/08/2024

- 12:35

Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are common in Iceland

Britons have been given a fresh travel warning for Iceland following volcanic eruptions which took place just days ago.

Iceland is home to captivating landscapes which attract visitors year after year. The Blue Lagoon, Skógafoss waterfall, Thingvellir National Park and Kirkjufell are just some of the picturesque destinations Iceland has to offer.


If you're visiting this European country, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has provided some essential advice.

The FCDO said: "Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are common in Iceland. Recently there has been a series of volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula in south-west Iceland, the latest on August 22.

Thingvellir National Park, Iceland

Iceland is a picturesque holiday destination

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"These have affected the town of Grindavik and the area to the north of it.

"Icelandic authorities advise that you stay away from this area. All roads to Grindavik and the surrounding area are closed.

"It is likely there will be further eruptions in this location. Monitor local media for updates and follow the authorities’ advice on travel to the area.

"Keflavik International Airport and the road to it is unaffected and operating normally.

"The capital city, Reykjavik, and the rest of Iceland is not impacted by the eruptions.

"Volcanic activity is closely monitored for any signs of unrest in Iceland’s 32 active systems.

"Infrastructure is robustly designed, but not all events can be anticipated and can pose risks to your travel plans such as travel delays and cancellations, poisonous volcanic gases, rock falls and landslides and sudden and large flooding."

Britons visiting Iceland were advised to regularly check for alerts and advice from the Icelandic tourist board, Icelandic Met Office, Safe Travel Iceland and Almannavarnir Facebook page.

For further information on volcanic eruptions and earthquakes in Iceland, there are several organisations travellers can consult.

Britons were advised to read guidance from the Icelandic Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management, which includes health and safety advice.

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Route One, Iceland

Britons were recently given an Iceland travel warning that is essential for drivers

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Holidaymakers can also receive helpful information from the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration, Institute of Earth Sciences, London Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre and Icelandic National Broadcasting Service.

Britons were recently given an Iceland travel warning that is essential for drivers.

In other travel news, holidaymakers have been issued a critical warning as holiday destinations with the highest malaria risk are named.

Experts said: "While malaria is not found in the UK, it is common in many countries across the world. Malaria risk is higher in tropical climates where mosquitoes live, including Central and South America, Africa, South and South-East Asia and some Pacific islands."

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