Written By Lisa Murimi
A foreign tourist has died in southern Iceland after a glacier ice collapse during a group visit to the Breidamerkurjökull glacier, according to local media reports.Â
Another tourist was injured and has been hospitalized, though their life is not in danger.
However, two others remain missing, and rescuers have resumed their search after suspending efforts overnight due to challenging conditions.
The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon as a group of 25 people, including a guide, were exploring an ice cave within the glacier.
Emergency workers arrived on the scene shortly after the collapse and began hand-digging in a desperate attempt to locate those still trapped.
“A large number of rescuers and responders have taken part in the operation,” police stated on Monday.
At one point, up to 200 people were involved in the rescue efforts, with dozens continuing the search on Monday morning.
Chief Superintendent Rúnarsson confirmed that all involved were foreign tourists. Despite the tragedy, he noted that ice cave tours are common year-round and that the guides are highly experienced.
However, he acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the terrain, stating, “This is a living land, so anything can happen.”
