A volcanic eruption in southwestern Iceland has prompted the evacuation of residents and the closure of the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, according to Iceland’s national broadcaster RUV. The eruption began early Wednesday morning, shortly after an intense swarm of earthquakes struck the Reykjanes Peninsula, located southwest of the capital city, Reykjavik. This seismic activity triggered immediate safety concerns and led authorities to act quickly.
Approximately 100 people were evacuated from the coastal town of Grindavik, along with tourists staying at nearby campsites and the Blue Lagoon resort. The swift evacuation was managed effectively, according to Margrét Kristín Pálsdóttir, a local police commissioner, who noted that it took about 90 minutes to complete. While some questioned whether the evacuation was necessary, Pálsdóttir emphasized that the authorities were responsible for prioritizing public safety.
Lava Flows Safely as Grindavik Faces Ongoing Volcanic Threats and Seismic Activity
The Icelandic Met Office reported that the lava is flowing southeast from a fissure that stretches between 700 and 1,000 meters across. Fortunately, the current flow of molten rock is not threatening any homes, roads, or other infrastructure. Despite the dramatic appearance of the eruption, the risk to critical facilities appears minimal at this stage.
This is not the first time Grindavik has been disrupted by volcanic activity. Since November 2023, the area has experienced repeated seismic and volcanic events following the awakening of a long-dormant volcano that had been inactive for roughly 800 years. These recurring eruptions have brought ongoing challenges to the region and have underscored the importance of constant monitoring and preparedness.
