Fifth Volcanic Eruption in Iceland Threatens Town, Evacuates Blue Lagoon
The southwestern region of Iceland experienced its fifth volcanic eruption since December, with the latest eruption threatening to isolate the town of Grindavík and prompting the evacuation of the globally renowned Blue Lagoon.
The eruption, characterised by fountains of red-hot lava shooting into the sky along a two-mile fissure near Mount Hagafell on the Reykjanes Peninsula, was reported to be more vigorous than previous ones by Iceland’s Meteorological Office.
The eruption was triggered by an earthquake at the Sundhnúks crater around 1 p.m. local time on Wednesday, Prior to this, the Met Office had issued warnings of a likely volcanic eruption due to intense seismic activity and magma buildup in the crater’s underground reservoir.
The lava flows have already blocked two of the three roads leading to Grindavík, a fishing town, and are steadily advancing towards a defensive barrier built to protect the town and its key infrastructure.
The town, home to about 3,000 people, was largely evacuated before the December eruption. However, three residents are reportedly refusing to leave.
The lava is also threatening to damage the town’s electricity supply. As a precautionary measure, power to Grindavík was cut off on Wednesday as lava flows near high-voltage lines and underground pipes.
Despite the severity of the eruption, Iceland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported no disruption to international or domestic flights. However, the country’s famous geothermal spa and tourist hotspot, the Blue Lagoon, was evacuated for the third time in just over two months. Located less than an hour’s drive from Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital and largest city, the Blue Lagoon is one of the country’s top tourist attractions.
Iceland, one of the most active volcanic areas globally, is known for its unique geological features. The Reykjanes Peninsula, where the recent eruptions have occurred, is dominated by a rift valley, with extensive lava fields and cones.
