Recent earthquakes near Reykjavik
Reykjavik sits near the Reykjanes Peninsula, where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge comes ashore in southwest Iceland, an area of frequent earthquake swarms and, since 2021, repeated volcanic eruptions. The capital itself is not on the most active faults but feels regular shaking from nearby rift activity. The South Iceland Seismic Zone to the east is the region's largest earthquake source. In the past 24 hours, Reykjavik has recorded 1 earthquake, the largest an M5.4 (109 km S of Akureyri, Iceland).
Counts include M2.5+ events — the smallest size USGS reports consistently worldwide.
Recent earthquakes
| Magnitude | Time (UTC) | Depth | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| M5.4 | Jul 28, 05:36 UTC | 10 km | 109 km S of Akureyri, Iceland |
Notable recent activity
A moderate M5.4 earthquake struck 109 km S of Akureyri, Iceland at 05:36 UTC on Jul 28 at a depth of 10 km.
Frequently asked questions
Does Reykjavik get earthquakes?
Yes. Reykjavik frequently feels earthquakes from the nearby Reykjanes Peninsula and the South Iceland Seismic Zone. Most are small, but swarms tied to magma movement, such as those near Grindavík, have been felt strongly in the capital area.
Is Reykjavik in danger from volcanoes?
The eruptions since 2021 have occurred on the Reykjanes Peninsula southwest of the city, near Grindavík, rather than in Reykjavik itself. The capital has been affected by earthquakes and infrastructure impacts rather than direct lava threat.
How big can earthquakes near Reykjavik be?
The largest earthquakes affecting the region come from the South Iceland Seismic Zone to the east and reach around magnitude 6 to 7. Reykjanes swarms are usually smaller but can include magnitude 5 events felt clearly in Reykjavik.
Nearby regions
Live data from the USGS earthquake feeds. Magnitudes and depths are automated readings and may be revised. Not for emergency use.