FRIDAY OCTOBER 11 1996
Hi-tech devices open new research possibilities on flood
State-of-the-art measuring equipment installed by the National Energy
Authority will give scientists an unparalleled opportunity to study expected
massive flooding from the Vatnaj�kull glacier.
Information gathered by the devices during the first hour of the deluge will also
help planners avert flood damage to roads and infrastructure.
Scientists estimate that more than 3 cubic km of glacial ice melted by the
continuing eruption of a volcano under Vatnaj�kull will inundate the
Skeidar�rsandur area of south Iceland.
Helicopters will also be used to photograph ice floes and chunks of glacial
material expected to be carried away by the floodwater, allowing scientists to
gauge the speed of the flood.