Iceland has experienced a series of earthquakes on the Reykjanes peninsula, just south of the country’s capital, Reykjavik. The town of Grindavik has since been evacuated.
While there hasn’t been a volcanic eruption yet, it is likely that one could occur and authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
Travel insurance expert and general manager at World Nomads, Jonathan Frankham, said: “Iceland is full of natural beauty, but it is also full of natural hazards, which are perhaps its number one draw card.
“For Brits travelling to or around Iceland, we’d strongly recommend keeping up to date with the FCO advisories and be prepared to adjust your plans. At present, the advice remains cautionary, and travel continues as normal.
“That said, Iceland’s volcanoes like to throw the European air traffic network into chaos. In spring 2010, the now infamous volcano with its tongue twisting name, Eyjafjallajokull erupted, causing over 100,000 flights in Europe to be cancelled.”
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He added: “It’s understandable that some Brits may want to know what this means for their holiday plans, some may not want to or fear they’ll be unable to travel if the situation escalates.
“We’d like to stress that if the current FCO guidance remains advisory, insurance coverage stands as normal.”
Currently there is no FCO advice warning British tourists against travelling to Iceland although tourists are advised to monitor local media for updates and follow the advice of authorities.
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Jonathan said: “If a natural catastrophe such as an earthquake, flood or volcano affects your travel plans, you must check your policy details.
“In any case, the first point of call should be your airline or travel provider to see what support they may provide.”
Unless the FCO advises against travel, British tourists won’t be entitled to a refund on their holiday.
World Nomads advice
- Follow advice of local authorities
- Avoid downed power lines
- After an earthquake, do not return to your hotel/accommodation if they are in any way damaged
- Avoid rapidly moving water where possible, as that can carry infections
- Be aware that in areas of massive structural damage, exposure to chemical or biological or other contaminants (eg. asbestos) is possible
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