About Eldey
Eldey is a fissure vent rising to 70 meters (230 feet) in Iceland's Atlantic Ocean Volcanic Regions. It last erupted in 1926 CE, and volcanologists consider it an active volcanic system. The volcano has produced 6 recorded eruptions, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 4.
Geography & Climate
Eldey is located in Iceland, within the Iceland Neovolcanic Rift Volcanic Province of the broader Atlantic Ocean Volcanic Regions. Situated at 63.73° N, 23.00° W in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a subarctic climate zone. At just 70 meters above sea level, Eldey is a relatively low-elevation volcanic feature. Despite its modest height, it remains an active geological formation with the same underlying magmatic processes as its taller counterparts. The volcanic landform is characterized as a cluster, which describes the physical shape and structure of the volcanic edifice as observed from the surface.
Geological Context
Eldey is situated along a rift zone, where tectonic plates are pulling apart. As the crust thins and fractures, magma rises to fill the gap, creating volcanic activity. Rift volcanism typically produces more fluid lava flows rather than explosive blasts, which means communities near Eldey in Iceland generally face slower-moving hazards like lava flows and ground fissures rather than sudden pyroclastic events. However, rift volcanoes can still generate significant ash emissions and gas releases that affect local air quality.
Eruption History Summary
Eldey has 6 recorded eruptions in the geological database, spanning from 1211 CE to 1926 CE. The most powerful recorded event was a cataclysmic eruption with ash columns reaching the stratosphere in 1211 CE, reaching VEI 4 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. Notable eruptions include 1340 CE (VEI 3), 1211 CE (VEI 4). This eruption frequency indicates a moderately active volcanic system with periodic reawakenings. The most recent eruption in 1926 CE places this volcano within the modern era of volcanological observation.
Significance
With a maximum recorded VEI of 4, Eldey has demonstrated the capacity for significant explosive eruptions that can impact regional aviation, agriculture, and communities tens of kilometers from the summit. VEI 4 eruptions produce ash columns reaching 15-25 kilometers into the atmosphere. With 6 recorded eruptions on file, Eldey has enough documented activity to help scientists identify patterns in its eruptive behavior.
GVP Reference Summary
The Eldey volcanic system is located on the northernmost part of the Reykjanes Ridge and is submarine with the exception of Eldey Island and the skerries (small rocky islands) Eldeyjardrangur, Geirfugladrangur, and Geirfuglasker. Maximum water depth within the system is about 250 m. Characteristic activity consists of explosive submarine basaltic eruptions. Six small eruptions have been located within this system during the last 1,100 years, the last occurring in 1926 CE. Bulletin reports that are included here cover a larger area of the Reykjanes Ridge south of Iceland without a clear source or enough evidence for a separate volcano entry.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
6 Recorded Eruptions
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1926 | 0 | Confirmed Eruption | Reykjaneshryggur (NE of Eldey) |
| 1884 | 2 | Uncertain Eruption | Reykjaneshryggur (NW of Eldey) |
| 1879 | 1 | Confirmed Eruption | Reykjaneshryggur (Geirfugladrangur) |
| 1422 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | Reykjaneshryggur (Geirfuglasker-Eldey area) |
| 1340 | 3 | Confirmed Eruption | Reykjaneshryggur |
| 1211 | 4 | Confirmed Eruption | Reykjaneshryggur |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Eldey
Is Eldey an active volcano?+
Yes, Eldey is considered an active volcano. Its most recent eruption was in 1926 CE. The volcano is monitored by geological agencies, and its activity status is based on observed eruptions within recorded history.
When did Eldey last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Eldey occurred in 1926 CE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 0. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Eldey has 6 recorded eruptions in total.
How high is Eldey?+
Eldey has a summit elevation of 70 meters (230 feet) above sea level. At 70 meters, it is a relatively low-elevation volcano.
What type of volcano is Eldey?+
Eldey is classified as a Fissure vent. Fissure vent volcanoes have distinct geological characteristics that set them apart from other volcanic types.
Where is Eldey located?+
Eldey is located in Iceland, in the Atlantic Ocean Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Iceland Neovolcanic Rift Volcanic Province. Its exact coordinates are 63.733° latitude, -23.000° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Eldey?+
Visiting Eldey requires checking current volcanic activity and alert levels. As an active volcano with eruptions as recent as 1926 CE, conditions can change rapidly. Always consult local geological authorities and follow official warnings before visiting. Many active volcanoes have designated safe viewing areas and guided tour options.
