Fears Building Collapse on Jan Mayen

In the worst-case scenario, earthquakes could lead to a collapse in parts of the main building, but a possible release of asbestos in smaller earthquakes is also concerning, according to a report from the Norwegian Cyber Defense Force. That is reported by Forsvarets Forum.

The main building on Jan Mayen was finished in 1960 and had an estimated lifespan of ten years.

Nevertheless, it has remained until now, and according to a report from the Norwegian Cyber Defense Force, the building is affected by serious rot in load-bearing constructions. The report also claims that earthquakes hit the island every day.

"Despite extensive work on improving the foundation of the building mass, there is significant worry about a possible collapse in parts of the main building," writes the Cyber Defense Force in the yearly report on Jan Mayen for 2021, which was published on the 22nd of February this year.

Furthermore, the report states that earthquakes on the island are usually of low strength, but that one does not know how much strength the building mass can withstand. They fear that even minor earthquakes could lead to the release of asbestos. According to the report, it is important to quickly clarify when new buildings can be ready.