Two individuals remain untraceable after their vacation excursion. - Tragically, at least one fatality occurred in an ice cave mishap in Iceland.
Just recently, another volatile event has occurred in Iceland's landscape: a volcanic explosion turned into an accident in an ice cave. This unfortunate incident has demonstrated once more the powerful and volatile nature of Iceland. An ice cave collapse near Jökulsárlón's glacial lagoon has resulted in at least one unfortunate casualty.
Another individual was severely injured and was airlifted to a hospital in Reykjavik by helicopter. According to the Icelandic police's Facebook post, the individual is currently in stable condition. Two more individuals, presumed to be trapped beneath the ice, are being actively searched for by rescue teams.
The casualties were part of a group of 25 international tourists who were exploring the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier tongue's ice cave in southeastern Iceland on Sunday. While their nationalities have yet to be disclosed, they hailed from various countries.
Iceland, with its glaciers, geysers, volcanoes, and waterfalls, is a heaven for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly from Germany. Last year, nearly 140,000 Germans visited Iceland. In total, around 2.2 million tourists came to the island, which is home to fewer than 400,000 inhabitants.
A Bond and Lara Croft's Haven
Over and above these natural wonders, glacier tongue hikes and ice cave explorations are some of the most popular activities for tourists in Iceland. Boat rides on Jökulsárlón provide an equally enchanting experience: icebergs up to several meters tall drift across the glacial lake, which have broken off from the Vatnajökull and its glacier tongue, Breiðamerkurjökull. This breathtaking view has served as a backdrop for numerous film productions, including several James Bond and Tomb Raider films.
Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Europe outside the polar regions. Various ice cave hikes are offered in the area.
Despite the stunning scenery, the search for the two missing individuals following the ice cave collapse is no easy feat: The dangerous conditions on site and the darkness have forced search operations to halt at night, only to resume with renewed vigor in the early morning. Images of the search from Iceland's broadcaster RÚV show dozens of workers scouring the ice masses covered in black sandstone by hand and shovel. Due to the impassable terrain, heavier machinery could not be employed.
Fire and Ice
Just a few days ago, Iceland's raw nature displayed its awe-inspiring side: A volcanic eruption began on the Reykjanes peninsula, near the capital Reykjavik, about a week ago. It was accompanied by numerous earthquakes.
Initially, lava was spewing from an estimated four-kilometer-long fissure, but now, the eruption is mostly concentrated on two fissures in the northern part of the eruption area. At the moment, there is no imminent danger to people or Grindavík's fishing village, which was severely affected during a previous eruption, with three houses being destroyed by lava flows.
The ice cave collapse occurred at a distance: The affected glacier is located approximately 300 kilometers east of this volcanic area.
The European Union, with its concern for the safety of its citizens, has urged travel agencies and tour operators to provide adequate information and safety measures for tourists visiting Iceland, particularly the glacier tongues and ice caves. The European Union has also offered assistance in the search and rescue efforts following the ice cave collapse.
In light of these recent events, the European Parliament is considering stricter regulations for tour companies operating in Iceland, aiming to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens and visitors alike.
