A new volcanic eruption in southwest Iceland has prompted the evacuation of the renowned geothermal Blue Lagoon spa and the small fishing town of Grindavik. The latest fissure, located near Sundhnuksgigar on the Reykjanes Peninsula, is the fifth eruption in the area since December.
The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) reported that the fissure extends over 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) and is still expanding. A state of emergency has been declared, although air travel to and from Iceland remains unaffected.
Grindavík mayor, Fannar Jónasson, expressed concern about the large volume of lava approaching the town Grindavik, noting it is significantly more than in recent eruptions. As a precaution, energy provider HS Veitur has cut power to Grindavik. Despite evacuation orders, three residents have refused to leave. Officials have issued strong warnings for everyone in or near Grindavík to evacuate immediately.
Access to Grindavík is severely restricted, with all but one road now impassable. Dramatic footage from the eruption site shows molten rock shooting up to 50 meters high and vast plumes of ash filling the sky. Benjamin Hardman, a natural history cinematographer documenting Iceland’s volcanoes, described the scene as “totally surreal.”
The Svartsengi power plant, supplying electricity and water to thousands on the peninsula, has also been evacuated. Barriers have been erected around the plant, Grindavík, and the Blue Lagoon to protect them from the lava flow.
Keflavik International Airport remains operational and is not expected to be impacted by the eruption. Intense earthquake activity was reported before the eruption, which geophysicist Ari Trausti Gudmundsson said had been anticipated for some time.
Most of Grindavík 4,000 residents were permanently evacuated in November due to a series of eruptions from December through March, with lava flows reaching the streets and engulfing homes. While some residents have returned to less risky areas, the recent activity underscores the ongoing danger.
Iceland, situated over the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, has 33 active volcanic systems. The Reykjanes Peninsula last experienced a prolonged period of volcanic activity 800 years ago, which continued for decades. Since 2021, there have been eight eruptions in the region, suggesting a potential new volcanic era that could persist for decades or even centuries.
The recent eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula signal a potentially extended period of volcanic activity that could have significant implications for the region. With Iceland’s unique position on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the tectonic activity is expected to continue shaping the landscape and impacting local communities.
Residents and authorities are now faced with the challenge of adapting to this new reality. Emergency measures and evacuation plans are being constantly updated to ensure the safety of those living near active volcanic zones. The repeated eruptions and associated lava flows have underscored the need for robust infrastructure and disaster response strategies.
In Grindavík, the community’s resilience is being tested as they cope with the frequent evacuations and the threat of losing homes and businesses. The government’s provision of a three-year transition period for those whose livelihoods are tied to bullfighting, as part of the new bullfighting ban, offers a model for supporting communities affected by natural disasters. Similar support and adaptation measures may be necessary for those affected by the ongoing volcanic activity.
The scientific community is closely monitoring the situation in Grindavik, gathering data to better understand the dynamics of the eruptions. This research is crucial not only for predicting future volcanic events but also for developing new technologies and methods to mitigate their impact.
Tourism, a significant part of Iceland’s economy, is also adapting. While the Blue Lagoon and other attractions are temporarily closed, the volcanic activity itself has become a point of interest for many visitors. Tour operators and local businesses are exploring ways to safely showcase the dramatic natural phenomena to tourists, potentially turning a challenging situation into an opportunity for growth.
In the broader context, Iceland’s experience with the Reykjanes eruptions provides valuable lessons for other volcanic regions around the world. The balance between safety, economic stability, and environmental preservation is delicate but essential for communities living under the constant threat of volcanic activity.
As Iceland navigates this new volcanic era, the resilience and adaptability of its people, coupled with scientific advancements and international support, will be key to overcoming the challenges posed by the relentless forces of nature.
