Vatnajökull (formerly known as Klofajökull) is an ice cap located
in the southeastern part of Iceland. It is the largest glacier in the country
both by area and volume, and the largest glacier in Europe by volume, while being
the second largest by area (the largest being Austfonna on Nordaustlandet in
Svalbard). Vatnajökull covers approximately 8,100 km² and reaches a thickness
of up to one kilometre, with an average thickness of about 400 metres.
Prior to the 14th century, Vatnajökull was much smaller than it is today.
Since around 1930, the glacier has been in a steady state of retreat, although
its size is believed to have reached its maximum around that time.
It is possible that Vatnajökull was once divided into two separate glaciers,
which explains why it was long known as Klofajökull.
Beneath Vatnajökull lie some of Iceland’s most powerful volcanic systems.
The Grímsvötn volcanic system is the most active and best known, alongside
Öræfajökull. Other notable volcanic centers include Gjálp, which was named only
a few years ago, as well as Bárðarbunga.
Eruptions beneath Vatnajökull have occurred in cycles over time, and earth
scientists believe that a new eruptive cycle may be beginning at present.
If so, volcanic eruptions beneath Vatnajökull could become frequent over the
next half-century or longer.
Parts of the glacier around Skaftafell were designated a national park in 1967.
On October 28, 2004, the entire southern portion of Vatnajökull became part of
the Skaftafell National Park.
In 2007, Vatnajökull was declared a national park in its entirety with the
establishment of Vatnajökull National Park.
The national parks at Skaftafell and Jökulsárgljúfur were also incorporated into
Vatnajökull National Park.
Approximately 30 outlet glaciers flow from Vatnajökull.
Below is a list of the outlet glaciers that descend from Vatnajökull,
categorized according to the administrative regions of Vatnajökull National Park.
Source:
See here
Vatnajökull þekur stórt svæði Suðausturlands.