Iceland’s Blue Lagoon has extended its closure through November 28 as a result of a nearby volcanic eruption. The resort initially closed on November 20 and intended to reopen on November 25; that has now been extended as its entire parking lot is covered by lava.
"It is impossible to tell the damage at this point, but we will see this better as time goes on and how we can respond," Helga Árnadóttir, manager of sales, operations and services at the Blue Lagoon, told the Iceland Monitor.
The Blue Lagoon has not shared any information other than “Blue Lagoon will be closed through Thursday, November 28, at which time the situation will be reassessed.” Guests with bookings during the closure are being contacted with the opportunity to cancel or rebook their stay.
The Icelandic Meteorological Office said in an update Monday that volcanic activity has not decreased as quickly as it did in previous eruptions and the rate of lava flow is comparable to the strongest eruptions at Fagradalsfjall. That said, the eruption is still highly localized, resulting in minimal disruptions throughout the country.
Visit Iceland reports that air traffic to and from airports are operating normally and all services are also fully operational. The area surrounding the eruption remains closed to visitors. Visit Iceland adds, however, that the fumes do not pose danger to people, although those with lung and respiratory conditions “should always be careful.”
Blue Lagoon initially closed for a few days last year due to a similar eruption; that closure then lasted about two months.
Related Stories
Survey: Iceland, Australia and Canada Top Three Safest Countries
Sweden Becomes World’s First Country to Apply for Trademark
Iceland’s Rugged Beauty Comes from Within
Kensington Tours and The Nordics Partner for Sustainable Travel