Evacuation siren test in Grindavík and Svartsengi postponed

Due to recent volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula and the conditions associated with it, evacuation sirens have been installed in Grindavík and Svartsengi. The sirens are part of the Civil Protection alert system and are intended to warn people if an evacuation needs to be carried out at short notice.

The evacuation sirens are only activated during an actual emergency if a volcanic eruption is considered imminent and an evacuation is required. The sound is loud and continuous and serves as a clear signal to leave the area immediately in accordance with instructions from Civil Protection.

To ensure the system functions properly, the evacuation sirens are regularly tested on the last Wednesday of each month. These tests involve only a brief sound test and do not indicate danger. There is currently no volcanic eruption taking place, and no evacuation is required.

The next test was originally scheduled for New Year’s Eve, 31 December, which falls on the last Wednesday of the month. However, out of consideration for residents of Grindavík and those staying in Svartsengi, the test has been postponed by one week. It will now take place on 7 January 2026.