Braking News - Volcanic Eruption in Iceland

Volcanic Eruption - Update 21 March 2010
All roads previously closed due to the eruption are now reopened.

Just before midnight on 20 March 2010 the volcano near Eyjafjallajokull/glacier in south Iceland began to erupt. Emergency plans were immediately enacted by the Icelandic authorities to move around 500 residents from areas that may possibly be affected; primarily around the Fljotshlid region. Road closures (from Selfoss to Vik) are currently in place as a precautionary measure. Having spoken to contacts in the area, we are hopeful that the roads will reopen later this morning. It is almost 200 years since a volcano near Eyjafjallajokull, 120km (75 miles) east of Reykjavik, last erupted.

The main Icelandic newspaper, Morgenbladid (www.mbl.is), has reported that there are two lava flows, one to the east and a larger flow to the west, and that there is no melting of ice. Fortunately, the eruption occurred at a volcano between two glaciers (at Fimmvorduhals).

Discover the World are pleased to report that there is no immediate danger to any of our passengers. We are closely monitoring the situation.

Icelandair has reported that flights from Keflavik to the UK on 21 March are delayed as a precautionary measure (now scheduled to depart at 11:30 instead of 08:30). Eyewitness reports from Hotel Ranga in South West Iceland state that there is no visible ash cloud from their location (just south of Hella) and that a glow could be seen over the glacier last night.

Discover the World anticipates arranging an 'Volcanic Eruption Tour' early next week, once the situation has become clearer. Eruptions can last for an unknown length of time. Those registered on our 'Volcano Hotline' will be notified as a priority. Please email volcanohotline@discover-the-world.co.uk or call our office +44 (0) 1737 214 250.

This eruption has not affected lines of communication to Iceland, however should you have any concerns for people travelling in Iceland with Discover the World at present, please call our emergency telephone number: +44 (0) 7793 267510.