For the last couple of weeks, Iceland has been facing immense pressure due to a seemingly imminent volcanic eruption on the island.
The authorities have taken to declare a state of emergency after a series of small earthquakes impacted the Reykjanes Peninsula, which is the most populated region in the country.
As per the Icelandic Met Office, there is a high possibility of Fagradalsfjall erupting, which was declared imminent by experts more than two weeks ago.
As of now, authorities have taken action by evacuating around 4,000 people from their homes, especially those living in Grindavik.
It is a fishing town that recently experienced an earthquake of magnitude 4.8 and was left to suffer devastating consequences.
Flights
The Keflavik International Airport in the country has decided not to halt the operation of flights despite the fact that it is located at a distance of only 16 kilometers from the site of the eruption.
Moreover, the authorities of the airport said that it may be making updates to flights, which the customers would soon be informed about.
According to a spokesperson for EasyJet, it will be continuing with its previously decided schedule but is also closely monitoring the situation.
UK Foreign Office
Meanwhile, the Foreign Office in the UK warned travelers in the previous week about a likely volcanic eruption in Iceland in the next couple of days.
It went on to advise tourists to keep their distance from the town of Grindavik, along with surrounding regions.
It further released a statement saying that volcanic activity had surged over normal levels in the Reykjanes peninsula, which is located in the southwestern area of Reykjavik.
Currently, the authorities are keeping a close eye on the northwestern region of Mt Thorbjorn, which is located close to the Blue Lagoon and the Svartsengi power plant.
On a similar note, the Irish authorities have recommended that people halt traveling to the island and that anyone going to the affected town should be stopped.
Visitors have also been told to adhere to the rules and regulations laid down by the local authorities.
But while Ireland and the UK are actively discouraging travel to Iceland, they have not issued a travel warning to forbid travel to the island.
This means that holiday companies and airlines are operating as per the norm, and no refunds are being given out to people for canceling their tickets.
Travelers
As of now, travel insurance companies have said that they will not be issuing any insurance coverage for canceled flights.
In their words, the FCO guidance has not shown any change and continues to remain advisory, which is why they have made this decision.
It is routine for travelers to Europe to purchase travel insurance before they make arrangements.
With travel insurance, visitors are able to protect themselves from any inconveniences, such as delays, natural disasters, excessive expenses, and flight cancelations.
Currently, travel insurance is only being offered by a couple of companies, like AXA Travel Insurance, Allianz Travel, Mondial Care, Dr-Walter, and Europ Assistance.
