Icelandic eruption disrupts Blue Lagoon, spares air travel
Once again, Iceland's volcanoes are making their presence known. The tourist-attractive island is home to 130 volcanic cones and 26 historically active volcanoes. One of these has been awakened from its slumber, causing significant damage.
26 November 2024 14:02
The characteristic ponies living freely on the island, aurora borealis, vast moss-covered landscapes, hot springs, legends of elves, and the iconic Blue Lagoon make Iceland a fascinating tourist destination in many respects. Geology enthusiasts are drawn by over 130 volcanic peaks, 26 of which have been historically active. Hekla is the most active of these, but it is not the one currently troubling Iceland's residents.
A volcanic eruption is ongoing in Iceland
Sundhnúkur Volcano erupted in the evening on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. This is already the seventh time in 2024 that the mountain has stirred. An earthquake triggered the current eruption. The volcano is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula—the same area where the Blue Lagoon is situated, a spa featuring pools with therapeutic water. Blue Lagoon is considered one of the 25 wonders of the world and is also a popular tourist spot. Due to the eruption, where lava consumed the spa's parking lot, the facility has been temporarily closed.
Despite the volcanic eruption, air traffic in Iceland has not been disrupted. Planes from both small and large airlines continue to fly to and from Keflavík Airport. Among these airlines is the British carrier EasyJet. Onboard one of its planes, a film capturing the volcanic eruption was made. In the film, the pilot asks passengers to remain seated and fasten their seatbelts. The pilot also emphasizes that while witnessing the volcanic eruption from above is exciting, passenger safety is more important than the beautiful views.
