Earthquakes disrupt daily life on Reykjanes Peninsula as volcanic pollution affects southern Iceland

Earthquakes on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Volcanic pollution is expected to subside throughout the day. The area is currently experiencing volcanic emissions reaching from Sandgerði to the eastern side of the mountains. The pollution, which had previously blown out to sea in recent days, is returning over the land. Meteorologists predict improvements in conditions as the day progresses.

The pollutants from the eruption at Stóra-Skógfell have particularly affected the southwestern region of the country this morning. The volcanic emissions have been notably higher than what was recorded since the beginning of the eruption, with significant levels detected in Vogum, Hveragerði, and Selfoss, although values in the capital area have started to decline.

Residents in Vogum are urged to exercise caution due to the presence of volcanic haze. Experts anticipate that the haze will remain over southern and western parts of the country throughout the day, but it is expected to gradually diminish as weather conditions shift, bringing stronger southerly and southeasterly winds accompanied by increased precipitation. This may help improve air quality as the weekend approaches.

In Vogum, the local swimming facility has not closed, despite the pollution. According to the facility manager, Ásta María Guðmundsdóttir, attendance at the swimming pool was very low today, partly due to the absence of school swim classes. Residents reported a noticeable smell of smoke and have been closely monitoring air quality readings.