An Iceland volcano eruption has occurred on the Reykjanes peninsula in southwest Iceland following weeks of heightened seismic activity. The Icelandic Met Office reported that the eruption began north of the fishing town of Grindavik at 22:17 local time. Approximately 4,000 people were evacuated from Grindavik, and the popular Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in the vicinity was closed as a precaution.
The Reykjavik region has experienced increased earthquake activity since late October. Images and videos circulating on social media depict lava spewing from the volcano shortly after a series of seismic events. A coastguard helicopter has been dispatched to confirm the eruption’s precise location and scale.
The Met Office stated that the eruption is situated approximately 4km (2.5 miles) north-east of Grindavik, with seismic activity progressing towards the town. The length of the crack in the volcano spans about 3.5km, and the lava is flowing at a rate of 100 to 200 cubic metres per second—significantly higher than in previous eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula in recent years.
Vidir Reynisson, a senior police officer at the Civil Defence, described the eruption as a “quite large event” that unfolded rapidly. Lava appears to be flowing in various directions from a sizable crack in the volcano, with powerful jets observed at the outset.
The eruption is visible from Reykjavik, situated approximately 42km north-east of Grindavik. Eyewitnesses in the Icelandic capital reported seeing half of the sky in the direction of Grindavik illuminated in red. Smoke is also billowing into the air, prompting authorities to advise people to avoid the area.
Iceland’s Prime Minister, Katrin Jakobsdottir, expressed optimism about recently constructed defenses having a positive impact. She conveyed her thoughts to the local community, acknowledging the significance of the event. President Gudni Johannesson emphasized the priority of safeguarding lives while assuring that efforts would be made to protect structures.
The eruption revives memories of the eruption in April 2010, which led to the largest closure of European airspace since World War Two due to an extensive ash cloud. Losses from the disruption were estimated at between 1.5 billion and 2.5 billion euros. The current eruption raises concerns about potential disruptions but is being closely monitored for its impact on both local communities and international travel. Source thedailycourierng news