Reykjanes Peninsula Sees Seventh Eruption in a Year as Iceland's Volcanic Activity Surges
A volcano on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula erupted late on Wednesday, 20 November 2024, marking the region’s seventh eruption in just one year. The eruption began shortly after 11 PM local time when a fissure approximately 3 kilometres long opened, sending molten lava towards the popular Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, a major tourist attraction.
Tourists at the Blue Lagoon, known for its stunningly blue waters and geothermal pools, were evacuated as the lava reached the facility’s parking lot, destroying at least one service building. The Blue Lagoon has been forced to close temporarily due to ongoing volcanic activity, with operations suspended until at least Sunday, 24 November, pending reassessment of the situation.
Local authorities also evacuated approximately 50 homes in the nearby town of Grindavík, which had seen a surge in volcanic activity in recent months. While the recent eruption has triggered concerns, the Icelandic Meteorological Office indicated that the activity was smaller compared to previous eruptions, such as the significant event in August that resulted in extensive ground fissures and a minor earthquake.
Although the immediate area remains under threat from lava, officials have confirmed that Grindavík is not at risk from direct lava flow at this time. However, volcanic gas emissions pose a potential hazard for nearby residents. The Icelandic government has declared a state of emergency in response to the eruption and has deployed monitoring teams to assess the impact on local infrastructure, including a key geothermal power pipeline that remains intact.
The Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced a remarkable increase in seismic activity over the past year, attributed to its location along the boundary of two tectonic plates. Iceland, known for its stunning natural beauty and geothermal activity, averages one eruption every four to five years, with the recent series of events reviving interest in the geological dynamics of this island nation.
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