Sulfur dioxide (SO2) pollution from the eruption in Holuhraun is expected mainly across western Iceland today but at low levels. Tomorrow, the pollution may be felt in many places northwest of the eruption site, according to the latest forecast from the Icelandic Met Office.
People who feel discomfort are advised to stay indoors, close their windows, turn up the heat and turn off air conditioning. Periods of good air quality should be used to ventilate the house.
The level of SO2 reached close to 1,000 mµ/m3 in the capital area on Saturday night. At levels above 600 mµ/m3 individuals with underlying conditions are likely to experience respiratory symptoms and outdoor activity is advised against. While health effects are unlikely among healthy individuals, heavy outdoor activity is also advised against, according to the Directorate of Health.
Further information can be found in English on the website of the Directorate of Health.
Go to airquality.is to check the pollution levels in different locations in Iceland at any given time and to vedur.is for two-day pollution forecasts. Although still being developed further, an automatic gas dispersion forecast, including pollution levels, is also available.
SO2 gas is expected to remain west and southwest of the eruption, including West, Southwest and the western parts of South Iceland.
