is one of Iceland’s most iconic natural landmarks that has been luring tourists from across the world for years. But now, it has captured the attention of residents, scientists and visitors alike. You may ask why? As per Arctic Portal.org, there has been an unusual shift in the shoreline, as strong ocean forces over recent weeks have caused extensive coastal erosion, dramatically altering both the appearance and accessibility of the famous Black Beach.The beach’s signature basalt columns, famous for their geometric, honeycomb appearance? Directly impacted. Under the relentless pounding of wave action, sand and sediment has been transported to such an extent that parts of these formations now reach out further into the surf than originally. Once protected by many feet of black sand, the rock base is now exposed and in jeopardy.
Sand that normally buffers the bases of the rock formations has been eroding and failing, local observers say, allowing for more direct access to the sea by waves pounding against the columns. One local estimated the ocean has retreated inland by tens of metres in some parts, taking with it much if not all of the regular beach.The difference visually has been striking. Places where visitors were once able to stroll wide expanses of sand are now much narrower, and some are no longer considered safe for access to the beach.Read more: The only passport offering access to 190+ destinations in latest Henley index — Full list inside
Unusual weather
Experts on coastal change blame the shift in part on a prolonged bout of strong easterly winds that was accompanied by high wave conditions earlier this winter. The relentless pounding of heavy surf aimed at Iceland’s South Coast, scooting sediment along much faster and magnifying the region’s typical erosion patterns.Coastal erosion is a fact of life for Iceland’s shores, formed over millennia by volcanic activity and the unforgiving force of the North Atlantic, but recent patterns and extent upon such visible cliffs appear especially fast.Reynisfjara is known for its jet-black volcanic sands, soaring basalt columns and the offshore sea stacks named Reynisdrangar; it’s famed around the globe. Together, they make up one of the most photographed Icelandic landscapes.Part of the Katla UNESCO Global Geopark, which has been internationally known for its geological formations and glaciated landscape moulded by both volcanic activity and glaciers. The area is literally a living museum that offers an amazing insight into how fire and ice have over thousands of years sculpted Iceland’s environment.Read more: Watch: Rare moment as black panther and leopard drink water side by side
Safety concerns as access changes
Reynisfjara has been both celebrated for its otherworldly beauty and honored for its risks. Yet sudden ‘sneaker waves’, it is said, have led to accidents in the past and authorities have consequently installed warning systems as well as designated viewing platforms to ensure visitor safety.With the profile of the shoreline changed, some walking paths and beach access points are even closer to the waterline. In some places, previously accessible areas are now seen as unsafe. Local authorities and organisations are still monitoring the situation, reminding visitors to stay on marker paths, follow safety signs and do not attempt to approach the cliff edge or old shore line.Because of unpredictable surf and the exposed fresh rock faces, highest caution is necessary at high tide and rough seas.Whether sand will be eventually back in place and the shoreline recovered is unknown. Coastal systems are dynamic by nature, and beaches can replenish themselves over time though no one can say when that might happen.Travellers heading to Iceland’s Black Beach over the next few weeks could see a much different landscape than one normally shown in postcards and travel books.
