Volcanic smog and gas pollution from the eruption at Sundhnúksgígaröð

Ritstjórn

Public Health Authority

The eruption plume as seen earlier today. Tonight, elevated levels of fine particulate matter and sulfur dioxide from the eruption are detected.
The pond, houses, vegetation, and eruption plume in the distance.

Reykjavík Public Health warns that volcanic smog and gas pollution now cover the capital area. Volcanic haze contains pollution that has transformed into SO4 (sulfate). It's not detected by standard sulfur dioxide (SO2) measurements. However, fine particulate matter measurements indicate this pollution is present. Tonight, Monday, August 26, elevated levels of fine particulate matter and sulfur dioxide from the eruption are being measured.

Volcanic smog forms when SO2, other gases, and particles react with oxygen and moisture in sunlight. It has a characteristic blue-gray color from sunlight scattering on particles/spray.

Volcanic smog can cause fatigue, headaches, eye and throat irritation, and flu-like symptoms. People with respiratory sensitivities and children should avoid prolonged outdoor activities and limit exertion. Less sensitive individuals may also experience symptoms and should limit outdoor exertion. It's not recommended to let young children sleep outside in strollers under these conditions.

General advice for gas pollution:

  • Lung and heart patients should have their medications ready.
  • Breathe through your nose and avoid physical exertion outdoors in heavy pollution to reduce the concentration reaching your lungs.
  • Staying indoors with closed windows and turned-off ventilation provides significant protection from pollution.
  • Note that dust masks offer no protection against gas pollution.
  • Measures to protect against SO2 and other volcanic pollution indoors:
  • Close windows and minimize use of outside doors.
  • Raise the temperature in the house.
  • Ventilate when outdoor air quality improves.

Additional health advice related to air pollution is available on the Director of Health's website. Air quality measurements are available on the Environment Agency's website loftgæði.is. Detailed instructions on responding to SO2 levels are available by clicking the link in the left corner of the page. Gas pollution forecasts can be found on the Icelandic Meteorological Office website.