In 1973, the Eldfell volcano
erupted. The eruption caused a major crisis for the island and
led to its immediate evacuation. Volcanic ash fell over most
of the island, destroying many houses, and a lava flow threatened
to close off the harbour, the island's main income source via
its fishing fleet. An operation was mounted to cool the advancing
lava flow by pumping sea water onto it, which was successful
in preventing the loss of the harbour.
Getting to the island was not
easy, involved a nauseating 3 hour ferry ride from the Icelandic
mainland in stormy, north Atlantic winter conditions. It was
totally worth it to visit this incredible place that has such
an interesting history. |