A new volcanic eruption has begun on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula, prompting evacuations in the nearby town of Grindavík and the popular Blue Lagoon spa. The eruption started around 09:45 local time, just north of Grindavík, after hundreds of earthquakes hit the Sundhnúks Crater Row area earlier in the day. Authorities had already ordered evacuations in anticipation of the eruption, with roads closed but flights unaffected. This latest eruption marks another episode in a series of volcanic activities that have been ongoing since 2021.
The fissure quickly expanded to 700 meters wide and continued to grow, with a new crack opening southward by 11:00 local time. The rapid expansion of the fissure highlights the dynamic nature of volcanic activity in the region. Iceland’s Meteorological Office (IMO) has been closely monitoring the situation, providing updates on the eruption’s progression and potential impacts. The IMO noted that the length of the current magma tunnel under the crater series is about 11 kilometers, the longest measured since November 11, 2023.
Most of Grindavík’s 4,000 residents were evacuated in November 2023 due to previous eruptions. However, some residents remained in the area, with reports indicating that around 40 houses were occupied. Despite evacuation orders, several individuals initially refused to leave, according to Icelandic media. The region’s police chief, Úlfar Lúðvíksson, emphasized the importance of following evacuation orders to ensure safety. The ongoing volcanic activity has significantly impacted life in Grindavík, with many residents having already relocated.
The Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced multiple eruptions since 2021, marking a significant increase in volcanic activity. Historically, the peninsula had a prolonged period of eruptions about 800 years ago, which continued for decades. This historical context suggests that the current activity could persist over an extended period. Iceland is uniquely positioned over the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the boundary between two major tectonic plates, which contributes to its high volcanic activity. The country has 33 active volcano systems, making it a hotspot for geological activity.
As the eruption continues, concerns about gas pollution have been raised. According to the IMO, based on current wind directions, gas emissions from the eruption are expected to travel northeast towards the capital area. This could potentially affect air quality and daily life in Reykjavik and surrounding regions. Despite these challenges, Iceland’s robust monitoring systems and evacuation protocols have helped mitigate immediate risks. The ongoing volcanic activity serves as a reminder of the dynamic geological forces at play in Iceland and the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of natural events.
Source: Reuters
