Iceland warns of potential glacial flood in Skaftá River area near Sveinstind

Iceland’s Meteorological Office has indicated that a glacial flood, known as Skaftárhlaup, is likely beginning. Since last night, electrical conductivity levels in the Skaftá River have gradually increased, along with rising water levels and flow rates near Sveinstind. The flood’s origins are believed to be in the western Skaftár cauldron, but a full outbreak has not yet been confirmed by experts.

Authorities are currently refraining from declaring an uncertainty level. However, monitoring personnel from the Meteorological Office are already on-site. It is crucial for residents and travelers in the flood-prone area to stay informed about evolving conditions. The Meteorological Office warns that flood conditions will be prevalent along the banks of Skaftá in the coming days, with the potential for overflow onto nearby roads.

As the glacial floodwater flows beneath the glacier, it carries hydrogen sulfide, which can reach harmful concentrations, posing a risk to the mucous membranes of the eyes and respiratory system. Therefore, travelers are strongly advised to stay away from the Skaftá riverbed above Skaftárdalur and the edges of Skaftárjökull, Tungnárjökull, and Síðujökull while the flood is underway.

Rapid fractures may form around the cauldron area, necessitating caution for those in the Vatnajökull region. Currently, there have been no reports of sulfur odors in the Hólaskjóð center, indicating a less severe situation. The last glacial flood from the larger Skaftár cauldron occurred in September 2021, with historical flood events recorded since 1955.