Volcano erupts near Grindavík, prompting Blue Lagoon evacuation
A volcano near Iceland's capital 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 in the southwest of Iceland, near the village of Grindavík, began erupting at Sundhnuksgigar Crater Row.
- When did the evacuation begin? Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon were evacuated 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?
As confirmed by the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO), a volcano in southwestern Iceland has begun erupting. The eruption occurred at Sundhnuksgigar Crater Row, north of the village of Grindavík. Icelandic authorities decided to evacuate the residents of Grindavík and tourists from the popular Blue Lagoon after magma flows and a series of small earthquakes were detected.
Why was the Blue Lagoon evacuated?
The evacuation of the Blue Lagoon, a luxury spa, was necessary due to the threat of a volcanic eruption. Residents of about 25 homes in Grindavík were informed of the need to vacate their properties. Grindavík, 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, which have been occurring since 2021, have not directly affected Iceland's capital or air traffic. Despite intense seismic activity, there has been no ash ejected into the stratosphere that could disrupt flights. Iceland, known as the land of ice and fire, regularly experiences such phenomena due to its many glaciers and volcanoes.
