Noxious gases from a volcanic eruption in Iceland threaten to pollute the air of a nearby village. This was reported by the Icelandic Meteorological Institute (IMO). It is located around the village of Vogar, which has a population of about 1,000. The volcanic eruption began on Wednesday.
Concentrations of sulfur dioxide can reach 2,600 mcg per cubic meter. “This is a level that is detrimental to the health of sensitive people,” the Icelandic Environment Agency said.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) expects particularly heavy gas pollution in Vogar, a village about five kilometers northeast of Fagradalsfjall (the lava-flowing valley; ed.). The gases may reach Reykjavik on Saturday. The capital of Iceland is located 40 kilometers from the volcanic eruption.
Three tourists were slightly injured
Three tourists were also slightly injured by the eruption of the volcano on Wednesday evening. This includes a broken ankle. And the authorities stress that visiting the volcanically active area is not without risks.
So company spokesman Jordes Gudmundsdottir asks tourists to be careful. “We know it’s amazing, but we’re asking people to prepare well.” The hike to the volcano on the southwestern Reykjanes Peninsula takes about five hours, but hikers may also need to get past the lava flowing at Mount Fagradalsfjall.
“We are not going to lock down the area, but we are advising people not to visit the volcano,” Gudmundsdottir told the New York Times. “It’s not just a walk in the park.” Especially at night hours, tourists are expected.
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