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Glacial Outburst Flood in Múlakvísl River Concludes

From Morgunblaðið · () Icelandic

Translated from Icelandic, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • A glacial outburst flood in the Múlakvísl river has ended, according to Iceland's Meteorological Office.
  • While the flood has subsided, authorities advise caution in the area due to potentially elevated gas levels.
  • Monitoring of the situation will continue, though no gas measurements have been taken since August 20.

The glacial outburst flood in Iceland's Múlakvísl river has concluded, officials confirmed. While the immediate threat has passed, residents and visitors are still advised to exercise caution near the affected area. Elevated gas levels, including dangerous concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, were previously detected, prompting warnings for people to stay away.

Salóme Jórunn Bernharðsdóttir, a natural hazard specialist at the Icelandic Meteorological Office, stated that although the flood is considered over, the river's flow remains slightly higher than normal. Previous measurements indicated a significant increase in electrical conductivity in the river, reaching over 560 microsiemens per centimeter, a level not seen since a similar flood in 2017. However, this particular flood was not exceptionally large, characterized more by the river carving deeper rather than a substantial rise in water levels.

Gas measurements have not been conducted since August 20, but authorities emphasize the continued need for vigilance. "We can say that this flood is over, but we are always alert if anything changes and will let people know," Salóme added. The situation will be closely monitored for any potential shifts.

We can say that this flood is over, but we are always alert if anything changes and will let people know.

— Salóme Jórunn BernharðsdóttirConfirming the end of the glacial outburst flood while advising continued caution.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Morgunblaðið in Icelandic. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.