Eldfell

Eldfell is a volcanic cone on Heimaey, the largest island of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago off Iceland’s south coast. The name means Fire Mountain in Icelandic. Eldfell is part of Iceland’s volcanic system and is a prominent feature of the Westman Islands volcanic landscape.

The volcano gained prominence in 1973 during a well-documented eruption that began in January and lasted for several months. Eldfell produced a new summit cone and lava flows that threatened the harbor and the town of Heimaey. Most residents were evacuated, and authorities mounted an emergency response to protect critical infrastructure. A key measure involved pumping seawater onto the advancing lava to cool and divert it away from the harbor, an effort that helped preserve the port. The eruption gradually subsided, but the landscape of the island was permanently altered by lava flows and the formation of the Eldfell crater.

Today, Eldfell remains a dormant feature and a visible landmark on Heimaey. It is of interest to geologists and visitors for its eruption history and its role in the development of Icelandic civil defense and volcanic risk management. The Vestmannaeyjar islands continue to be a cultural and natural attraction, accessible by ferry and air service, with Eldfell serving as a reminder of the region’s volcanic activity.