About twelve years ago I stood on top of a volcano while visiting Vestmannaeyjar (the Westman Islands) in Iceland and admired the view. The volcano last erupted in 1973 and eventually became the justification for one of the wildest festivals in Europe, which consists of Vodka, music, and general debauchery, but nothing to do with volcanoes anymore. It was a good time for me with an inactive volcano — and the debauchery of the festival.

Today, one of ITKT’s writers, Sarit Reizin, has been in Iceland admiring the view. This time with an active volcano. Here are some of her photos of the experience and may answer why so many planes have been grounded. Enjoy!