A foreign tourist tragically lost their life in southern Iceland following an ice collapse during a group visit to a glacier. Another tourist sustained injuries but is now recovering in the hospital, with their life out of danger. However, two more individuals remain unaccounted for as search efforts continue.
The incident occurred at Breidamerkurjökull glacier on Sunday when a group of 25 people, accompanied by a guide, were exploring an ice cave. Rescue operations, which were initially halted due to challenging conditions, resumed on Monday morning. Emergency responders are searching for the missing individuals amidst the glacier's hazardous environment.
Authorities received an alert shortly before 3:00 PM on Sunday regarding the ice collapse. Despite the difficult conditions, a large number of rescuers, including 200 workers at one point, participated in the operation. Efforts have intensified as additional personnel are expected to join the rescue on Monday.
Speaking on Icelandic television, Chief Superintendent Rúnarsson explained that while the situation remained difficult, the weather had been relatively favorable. He confirmed that all those involved were foreign tourists and that the group’s trip had been deemed safe by experienced mountain guides who regularly conduct such tours.
Chief Rúnarsson mentioned that the victims had been in a ravine between ice cave entrances when a wall of ice gave way. He added that while guides are knowledgeable and precautions are always taken, the unpredictable nature of the glacier's environment means that accidents, unfortunately, can happen.
Breidamerkurjökull is a glacial tongue extending from the larger Vatnajökull glacier to the Jökulsárlón lagoon. It is renowned for its stunning ice caves, which attract many tourists each year.
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