Grindavik, Iceland: A new volcanic eruption on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula has sparked immediate evacuations as lava edges closer to the city of Grindavik. According to the Icelandic Met Office (IMO), the eruption commenced between Stóra-Skógfell and Hagafell, with live footage capturing the ominous sight of glowing lava and billowing smoke.
This marks the fourth eruption in the area since December, raising concerns among authorities. The Icelandic Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management has deployed a helicopter to pinpoint the precise location of the newly formed fissure.
Geophysicist Magnús Tumi Guðmundsson described the eruption as the most powerful in the recent series of seismic activities, highlighting the severity of the situation. Evacuation efforts are underway, with residents of Grindavik receiving urgent text messages prompting them to leave swiftly. Even the iconic Blue Lagoon, famous for its therapeutic waters, has been affected, with residents instructed to relocate.
Grindavik, home to approximately 4,000 residents, has faced previous volcanic threats. In November, hundreds of tremors and fissures damaged infrastructure, culminating in the evacuation of the entire town. Despite returning home in February, the community now faces renewed turmoil as lava once again encroaches upon their homes.
The recent eruptions serve as a stark reminder of Iceland’s volatile geology, with the land’s beauty juxtaposed against the ever-present threat of natural disasters. As residents brace themselves for the uncertain aftermath, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, prioritizing the safety and well-being of those affected by the eruption.
