Volcanic eruptions

Aviation colour code map

This map is issued by the Icelandic Meteorological Office and it shows the current status of Icelandic volcanic systems. It is refreshed at 09:00 UTC daily and will timely reflect any signs of unrest.



Colour codes, which are in accordance with recommended International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) procedures,are intended to inform the aviation sector about a volcano's status. Notifications are issued for both increasing and decreasing volcanic activity, and are accompanied by text with details (as known) about the nature of the unrest or eruption, especially in regard to ash-plume information and likely outcomes. The colour legend is given below the map.



GREY: Volcano appears quiet but is not monitored adequately. Absence of unrest unconfirmed.



GREEN: Volcano is in normal, non-eruptive state.

or, after a change from a higher alert level:

Volcanic activity considered to have ceased, and volcano reverted to its normal, non-eruptive state.



YELLOW: Volcano is experiencing signs of elevated unrest above known background levels.

or, after a change from higher alert level:

Volcanic activity has decreased significantly but continues to be closely monitored for possible renewed increase.



ORANGE: Volcano is exhibiting heightened unrest with increased likelihood of eruption.

or,

Volcanic eruption is underway with no or minor ash emission.



RED: Eruption is forecasted to be imminent with significant emission of ash into the atmosphere likely.

or,

Eruption is underway with significant emission of ash into the atmosphere.

World Organisation of Volcano Observatories



Further information

Further information can be obtained from the seismological group if necessary. Seismological overview from the last 48 hours is available and an enlarged aviation colour code map.

