Fourth Eruption Hits Reykjanes Peninsula Since December
Lava spewed from a new volcanic fissure on Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula on Saturday, marking the fourth eruption in the area since December as confirmed by authorities. The Icelandic Met Office reported a volcanic eruption between Stora Skogfell and Hagafell on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Live video footage captured glowing lava and billowing smoke, creating a dramatic sight.
The Build-Up to the Eruption:
Minutes before the eruption, the Icelandic Met Office had issued a statement highlighting increased seismic activity, signaling the likelihood of an eruption. Subsequently, the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management dispatched a helicopter to pinpoint the exact location of the new fissure. Reports emerged of the evacuation of the fishing town of Grindavik commencing, with residents receiving urgent text messages prompting swift departure.
A History of Unrest:
The town of Grindavik, home to around 4,000 residents, had just been allowed to return to their homes in mid-February after being evacuated in November. Previous seismic events had caused significant damage, including tremors that led to structural issues and a fissure eruption that narrowly missed the village. However, subsequent eruptions in January and February brought lava dangerously close to residential areas, resulting in the destruction of several homes.
Volcanic Activity in Iceland:
Iceland, with 33 active volcano systems, is known for its geothermal activity due to its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Despite this, the Reykjanes peninsula had not witnessed an eruption for over eight centuries until March 2021. Recent eruptions in 2022 and 2023 have sparked concerns among experts, suggesting a new phase of seismic activity in the region.