Volcano eruption forces evacuation near Iceland's Blue Lagoon
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 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?
The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) has confirmed that a volcano in southwestern Iceland has begun erupting. 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 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 Grindavik were informed that they needed to leave their homes. Located about 33 miles from Reykjavik, Grindavik has 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 ejection 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.
