Ground movements at Svínafellsheiði have slowed

The latest measurements indicate that ground movements at Svínafellsheiði have slowed in recent days. Small movements are still being detected, however, and experts consider it too early to draw conclusions about how the situation will develop.

The movements are monitored using, among other instruments, GNSS positioning sensors that detect ground displacement. These show total displacements of approximately 2–4 cm over recent weeks. In recent days, however, day-to-day displacements have been too small to distinguish with confidence in these measurements. Slower movements may become apparent when data spanning a longer period are analysed.

Small movements are still being recorded by extensometers, which measure changes in the width of cracks in the slope. Cumulative displacements recorded by these instruments are approximately 4–7 mm in the upper part of the area and around 14 mm in the lower part.

Experts assess the displacements recorded over recent weeks as still relatively small. Continued close monitoring and further data collection are needed before the likely development can be assessed with greater confidence.

Monitoring continues 24 hours a day, and the situation will be reassessed as new data become available.