Limited access to sites within Reykjanes Geopark
As mentioned in the previous post the seismic activity in the peninsula has been developing rapidly and an Emergency/Distress Phase has been activated.
The increased seismic activity is located in the southern part of the Reykjanes peninsula.
Scientists at the Icelandic MET office have been monitoring and measuring a strong earthquake swarm that occurs due to magma movement. The seismic activity has been moving around in the surrounding area of Grindavik for some time. However, late last night scientists measured evidence of the seismic activity moving closer and under the town of Grindavik. For that reason and for the safety of the residents, an Emergency/Distress Phase has been activated, and the town has been evacuated and roads leading into the town closed for traffic.
The closure is for road no. 43, 425 and 427. A map of the road closures can be found on road.is as seen in the image below.
The Closures are locations are as follows and affect the following sites towards Grindavik:
- by the small town of Hafnir on the west coast of the peninsula. The sites that are not accessible are Hafnaberg cliffs, the Bridge between continents, Reykjanesviti lighthouse and surroundings, Gunnuhver geothermal area, Stapar fissures, and Brimketill.
- by the main highway Reykjanesbraut in the north. The sites that are not accessible are Mt. Þorbjörn, and Eldvörp
- by the crossroads towards Lake Kleifarvatn in the south. The sites that are not accessible are the last eruption area in and around Mt. Fagradalsfjall, and Hópsnes.
All sites on the northern part of the Reykjanes peninsula are open and east of Kleifarvatn.
For further information on seismic activity, local authorities and safety measures visit the following websites:
- The Icelandic MET office: Information on the seismic activity in the Reykjanes region and development of events
- The Icelandic Road Administration: Information on road conditions and closures in the Reykjanes region
- The Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management: Information site for residents on how to prepare during these events
- Safetravel: Updates on safety
- The local Police authorities: Updates from the Reykjanes local authorities