Southern Iceland has been plunged into a state of emergency following the eruption of yet another volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula – marking the fourth such event since December. Lava flows from the eruption have already breached the eastern defenses near the evacuated town of Grindavik.
The eruption, which commenced late on Saturday (16), initially saw powerful and rapid lava flows spanning approximately 3 kilometers. Although activity has since diminished significantly, streams of lava continue to flow, albeit at a reduced rate, according to Iceland’s Meteorological Office.
Vídir Reynisson, director of Iceland’s civil defense, stated that all necessary precautions had been taken to prepare for the lava flow’s impact, with infrastructure concerns topping the list of priorities. Of particular worry are pools of lava accumulating near defense structures.
The eruption, reminiscent of one that began on December 8, poses potential threats to infrastructure and safety. While the main international airport remains unaffected, the possibility of lava reaching the sea and the proximity of streams to critical facilities, such as the Blue Lagoon and a geothermal power plant, raise concerns.
Geophysicist Magnus Tumi Gudmundsson described Saturday’s eruption as the most powerful thus far, with lava streams heading west and south. The potential interaction of lava with seawater could lead to hazardous gas emissions and small explosions, according to natural disaster expert Einar Bessi Gestsson.
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