Flow levels steady at Skaftá River in Iceland amidst natural hazard warnings

Flow levels in the Skaftá River have remained relatively steady since yesterday, measuring approximately 180 cubic meters per second at Sveinstind. The flow surged rapidly the night before, increasing from about 95 to 170 cubic meters per second within a twelve-hour period, but has since stabilized.

It is believed that the current flow is originating from the Vestari-Skaftárkatli, although this has not been officially confirmed. Flows originating from this area are typically smaller than those from the eastern caldera.

Johanna Malen Skúladóttir, a natural hazard specialist at the Icelandic Meteorological Office, reports that the flow has yet to reach its peak. However, it is classified as a minor flow and poses little risk to travelers. Nevertheless, visitors are advised to stay away from the Skaftá riverbed upstream of Skaftárdalur and the edges of the glacier during this time, as there is a potential risk of sulfur dioxide pollution. Crevasses can form rapidly around the caldera, which means that those on Vatnajökull should keep a safe distance.

Currently, there is no impact on major roads due to the flow, and the civil protection advisory level remains in effect.