Tragedy Strikes: Ice Cave Collapse in Iceland Claims One Life

At least one person has died, and two others are missing after an ice cave collapse in the Breidamerkurjokull glacier in southern Iceland. While exploring, four tourists were struck by ice. Rescue efforts continue for the missing individuals, with operations halted at night due to safety concerns.

At least one individual has perished, and two others remain unaccounted for following the partial collapse of an ice cave during a tourist visit to the Breidamerkurjokull glacier in southern Iceland.

Local police stated that first responders were alerted shortly before 3 p.m. on Sunday when a group of approximately 25 foreign tourists from various nationalities encountered the accident while exploring the ice caves. Four people were struck by falling ice, resulting in the death of one individual at the scene and serious injuries to another, who was airlifted to a hospital in the capital and is reportedly in stable condition. Rescue teams worked tirelessly throughout the afternoon and evening in treacherous conditions to locate the two missing persons. However, the search was suspended at night and is set to resume in the morning.

The Icelandic public broadcaster, RUV, highlighted the significant challenges in transporting equipment and personnel to the scene due to the rugged landscape, with rescue operations requiring manual efforts, including cutting through the ice with chainsaws. According to local news site Visir, the tourists were part of an organized tour and guided during the incident, with many located outside the cave at the time of the collapse. The site remains a popular tourist attraction.

Authorities have indicated that the collapse is not believed to be connected to the volcanic eruption that occurred about 300 kilometers away on Friday.

(With inputs from agencies.)