Grindavík, Iceland – The town of Grindavík in Iceland, along with the popular tourist destination Blue Lagoon, have been forced to evacuate due to another volcanic eruption. This latest eruption marks the 11th since 2021, following a period of increased volcanic activity in the Reykjanes peninsula, located southwest of Reykjavík. The Icelandic Meteorological Office reported that an “earthquake swarm” began near the Sundhnúkur crater row, leading to the eruption just north of Grindavík. The orange-red fissure quickly expanded southward, breaching the protective barrier near the town.
Videos and images captured the dramatic scene of magma spewing up on the Grindavík side of the barrier, raising concerns about the potential for further southward expansion of the fissure. Despite previous eruptions in November causing significant damage and displacing residents, a few inhabitants had chosen to remain in Grindavík, prompting authorities to urge their evacuation in light of the current eruption’s intensity.
The Icelandic authorities have successfully evacuated the town and the Blue Lagoon, prioritizing the safety of residents and visitors. Ch Supt Runólfur Þórhallsson, Iceland’s civil protection director, emphasized the need for caution due to the longer magma tunnel and the accumulation of a substantial amount of magma. The closure of the Blue Lagoon and the ongoing monitoring of gas pollution serve as precautionary measures during this unfolding volcanic event.
While local tourism may experience some disruptions in the immediate aftermath of the eruption, officials are optimistic about the resilience of the industry. The Icelandic tourist board has reassured the public that there is no immediate threat to the population, allowing for continued operation of flights at Keflavík airport. Despite challenges posed by volcanic activity, Iceland has seen a slight increase in foreign visitors, indicating a gradual recovery in the tourism sector following previous eruptions.
As the eruption continues to develop, emergency responders and geological experts are closely monitoring the situation in Grindavík. With ongoing seismic activity and signs of deformation within the town, precautions remain in place to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors. The evolving nature of the volcanic event underscores the need for continued vigilance and preparedness in the face of natural disasters in Iceland.