Volcanic eruption forces evacuation of Grindavik and Blue Lagoon
A volcano near the capital of Iceland has begun erupting, prompting authorities to evacuate nearby towns, including the popular Blue Lagoon.
What do you need to know?
- Where did the eruption occur? The volcano, located in the southwest of Iceland near the village of Grindavik, began erupting at Sundhnuksgigar Crater Row.
- When did the evacuation begin? The evacuation of Grindavik and the Blue Lagoon took place on Tuesday after magma flows and a series of small earthquakes were detected.
- What are the effects of the eruption? So far, the eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula have not directly affected Reykjavik or air traffic.
What are the latest reports on the eruption?
A volcano in southwestern Iceland has started erupting, as confirmed by the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO). The eruption occurred at Sundhnuksgigar Crater Row, north of the village of Grindavik. Icelandic authorities decided to evacuate the residents of Grindavik and tourists from the popular Blue Lagoon after detecting magma flows and a series of small earthquakes.
Why was Blue Lagoon evacuated?
The evacuation of the Blue Lagoon, a luxury spa, was necessary due to the volcanic threat. Residents of about 25 homes in Grindavik were instructed to leave. Grindavik, located about 53 kilometres from Reykjavik, had previously been evacuated when a volcano, dormant for 800 years, reactivated.
Has the eruption affected Reykjavik?
The previous eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, ongoing since 2021, have not directly affected Iceland’s capital or air traffic. Despite intense seismic activity, no ash has been ejected into the stratosphere to disrupt flights. Iceland, known as the land of ice and fire, regularly experiences such phenomena due to its many glaciers and volcanoes.
