Since it now considered to be highly likely that there is a volcanic eruption under the south western side of the summit of Eyjafjallajökull glacier, the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management, has decided to evacuate all areas in the immediate vicinity of the glacier. People in the area of Fljótshlid, Merkurbæir, Markarfljótsaurar and Landeyjum are instructed to go and register at Red Cross Mass Care centres. These centres are located in Heimaland, Varmahlid and Drangshlid. In addition, the Red Cross Mass Care centre has been opened in the elementary school in Hvolsvöllur.

The main road, National route 1, is now closed from Skeiðavegamót to the west of Skógará.