Iceland volcano
A volcano in Iceland erupted on Thursday, marking the second eruption this year. The eruption occurred on the southwestern Reykjanes peninsula, which has experienced six outbreaks since 2021. Lava spewed up to 80 meters (260 feet) into the air, as captured in live video footage showing bright-orange molten rock shooting from fissures in the ground against the backdrop of the dark night sky.
The country’s meteorological office issued a warning about the volcanic eruption, stating, “Warning: A volcanic eruption started north of Sylingarfell,” on its website. The eruption adds to the geological activity in the region, drawing attention from locals and international observers alike.
Intense earthquake activity began around 5:30 a.m., with the eruption starting roughly 30 minutes later, according to reports. The eruptive fissure stretched approximately 3 km (2 miles) in length, and the eruption was believed to be in the same location as a previous eruption on Dec. 18.
As a precaution, the nearby geothermal spa Blue Lagoon had closed on Thursday. The previous eruption in the area occurred on Jan. 14 and lasted about two days. Lava flows reached the outskirts of the Grindavik fishing town, prompting the evacuation of nearly 4,000 residents and causing some houses to catch fire.
However, Thursday’s eruption occurred at a distance from Grindavik and was unlikely to directly threaten the town, according to Icelandic geophysicist Ari Trausti Gudmundsson. The main concerns were potential disruptions to the road to Grindavik and the possibility of impacts on the nearby power plant and Blue Lagoon. The extent of the risk depended on the volume of lava released during the eruption.
Reykjanes outbreaks are fissure eruptions, commonly referred to as Icelandic-type eruptions. These eruptions typically do not result in large explosions or the significant production of ash dispersed into the stratosphere.
Reykjavik’s international Keflavik airport was open and operating “in the usual way”, airport operator Isavia said on its website.
In November, Icelandic authorities began constructing dykes aimed at diverting lava flows away from homes and critical infrastructure. Although the volcanic system’s threat level was downgraded, local authorities cautioned about potential future eruptions as land continued to rise in the area due to underground magma accumulation.
Iceland, roughly the size of the U.S. state of Kentucky, is home to more than 30 active volcanoes, making it a prominent destination for volcano tourism. This niche segment attracts thousands of thrill-seekers eager to witness volcanic activity firsthand.