Unexploded bombs discovered near volcanic eruption site at Sundhnúkur in Iceland

Several unexploded bombs have been discovered in the area surrounding the volcanic eruption at the Sundhnúkur crater chain, which began last week. Gylfi Þór Þorsteinsson, the project manager for the Grindavík Committee, has warned that the area is clearly marked but people continue to walk through it to get closer to the eruption.

The lava flows from the eruption are currently covering Vogaheiði, a site previously used as a shooting range by the U.S. military from the 1950s until 1960. Gylfi expressed concern about the dangers of visiting the site, stating that visitors—both locals and tourists—risk stepping on undetonated explosives.

Jonas Karl Þorvaldsson, head of the specialized rescue unit for the Coast Guard, noted during a news report that the area is significantly contaminated with bombs, creating a particular hazard due to the ongoing volcanic activity and its lava flow. He emphasized the challenges of clearing the area, mentioning that it has been surveyed three times, yet new devices continue to be found. The terrain’s inaccessibility makes it nearly impossible to manage safely.

The situation is exacerbated by the volcanic activity over a former bomb site, posing increased risks for those venturing into the area. Authorities continue to caution the public to stay away from designated hazardous zones to avoid potential accidents.