Iceland Volcano: Uplift In Svartsengi Continues

Protective barriers surrounding the Svartsengi area in early November 2024. (Photo: The Icelandic Met Office / Bjarki Kaldalóns Friis)

Update 20 May 2025

ICELAND MET OFFICE

• Based on the rate of magma accumulation in recent weeks, the likelihood of a new eruption may increase as autumn approaches 

• Earthquake activity near the dike continues to decline 

• The Hazard assessment remains unchanged and is valid until June 3, provided no changes occur 

Continued uplift is being measured in Svartsengi, indicating ongoing magma accumulation in the area. If the rate of uplift continues at the same rate as recent days, it can be assumed that the likelihood of a magmatic dike or eruption will begin to increase as autumn approaches. However, changes in the rate of uplift—and therefore magma accumulation beneath Svartsengi—could affect this assessment. 

Scientists at the Icelandic Met Office continue to revise potential future scenarios that may develop from the ongoing magma accumulation in Svartsengi. 

Earthquake activity near the dike that formed on April 1st continues to decrease. Most of the earthquakes have occurred at the southern part of the dike, however it has steadily declined in recent days. Seismic activity in Fagradalsfjall has also decreased. 

The hazard assessment map has been updated and remains valid until June 3rd, unless conditions change. The next news update will also be on June 3. 

Click the map to enlarge

ICELAND MET OFFICE