From Iceland — Volcano "For All Intents And Purposes" Finished, Air Travel Could Still Be Disrupted

Volcano “For All Intents And Purposes” Finished, Air Travel Could Still Be Disrupted

Published May 24, 2011

A geologist has claimed that the eruption at Grímsvötn appears to have run its course, but airlines are still exercising caution.
Last Saturday’s eruption caused considerable worry as ash poured down upon the south and southeast of Iceland especially, with ash particles also reaching the capital area, and even reaching as far afield as the UK and mainland Europe. Travelers on their way to or from Iceland found themselves temporarily stranded as flights were canceled or delayed.
However, as the Grapevine reported, the volcanic plume quickly dropped in height and ash began to thin as early as Sunday. Air quality in the capital also returned to normal today, and flights have resumed.
Magnús Tumi Guðmundsson, a geologist at the University of Iceland, now tells RÚV that for all practical purposes, the eruption can be considered finished. Speaking with Vísir, though, he emphasised that people should nonetheless remain prepared for the possibility of lava flow, as slim as that chance may be. There is also little chance of flooding.
As positive as this news is, airlines are still taking few chances. Vísir reports that the international airport in Keflavík might close this evening, and Iceland Express has had to delay some flights.
To follow flights you or those you know are expecting to take to or from Iceland, we advise you to follow updates on the official pages of Icelandair and Iceland Express that they have expressly dedicated to the volcano.

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