In case of a dangerous earthquake or a dangerous eruption it is vital to be able to access as soon as possible all available observations and knowledge to try to mitigate risks. This is significant during the often short time between the first suspicious signs of an impending hazard and the hazard itself. But it is also significant even if no prewarning can be given. Communication between scientists, the public and authorities is enormously significant during such times.
An early warning system is in development at IMOR.DG to serve such needs. Although it is only in its initial ages of development it is already applied in practice for supplying warnings and information and for testing (Stefánsson 2000a; Halldórsson et al. 2000; Stefánsson 2000b). This project is lead by IMOR.DG in cooperation with participation of specialists on information technology from the University of Iceland and a private company. The project is supported by the Iceland Science Foundation and the government of Iceland.