WIREDGOV

Satellite observations of the ash from the Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajökull are showing a plume over the North Sea and Denmark, at 20–30,000 ft, nearing the eastern fringes of the UK.

Icelandic volcanic eruption satellite imagery

Yesterday dust and odours were detected in the Northern Isles and we have been liaising with Health Protection Scotland and the Health Protection Agency. Dust has been collected at Lerwick and is currently being analysed by Scottish Environment Protection Agency.

Evidence from Met Office observations and the Icelandic Met Service show that ash is being released in pulses and not a continuous plume.

UK and Canadian computer models are showing a consistent trajectory over North West Europe and we will be collecting observations througout the day.

Decisions on flights and airline movement is controlled by National Air Traffic Services (NATS). The Met Office is unable to advise of any details of any flights. However, many airlines are providing information on their websites.

Our forecasters monitor volcanic eruptions as part of the Met Office’s role in the global network of nine Volcanic Ash Advisory Centres. Volcanic ash can be dangerous for aircraft, causing damage, reducing visibility, and potentially clogging engines. Our Environment Monitoring and Response Centre is constantly monitoring the Iceland area. Our first advisory was issued at 1400 on 14 April and they have subsequently been updated every six hours.

As one of only two World Area Forecast Centres, we regularly advise the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and National Air Traffic Services on the plume trajectories.

We will continue to produce forecasts of the ash cloud and will assess the impact into the weekend.

Volcanic Ash Advisory Centres

How we forecast volcanic ash

Health Protection Scotland

Health Protection Agency

Scottish Environment Protection Agency