A volcano in southwestern Iceland erupted on Thursday, near Grindavik town. As per the Icelandic Meteorological Office, the total length of the fissure was about 3.9 km and had extended by 1.5 km in about 40 minutes. Red-hot lava and massive smoke could be seen coming out of the volcano. This is the sixth outbreak in the volcano since December.
Volcano In Southwestern Iceland Erupts For Sixth Time Since December
At around 9:26 PM (2:56 AM IST) on Thursday, a volcano erupted on the Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland. Video and photos showed red lava spewing out of a new fissure, marking the sixth time the volcano erupted since December. As per the Icelandic Meteorological Office, the total length of the fissure was about 3.9 km and had extended by 1.5 km in about 40 minutes.
According to a News18 report, the volcano erupted near the Grindavik town. However, the lava flow was not headed towards the town, unlike the previous eruptions. The town of Grindavik was largely evacuated in December 2023 when the volcano erupted for the first time after being dormant for 800 years!
The most recent eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula ended on June 22. Reportedly, the volcano spewed fountains of molten rock for 24 days. As per scientists, the Reykjanes peninsula could face repeated outbreaks for decades or even centuries. This is challenging as the place is home to around 30,000 people who make up nearly 8% of Iceland’s total population.
Also Read: Earthquake Of 7.0 Magnitude Hits Russia’s Eastern Coast; Triggers Volcanic Eruption In Shiveluch
Air Travel Remains Unaffected In The Region
Despite the volcano eruption in Iceland, air travel in the region is unaffected. Flights were on schedule at Reykjavik’s Keflavik Airport and no disruption was reported. These volcanic outbreaks in Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula are basically fissure eruptions. This means that they do not cause air traffic disruption as they do not cause large explosions or significant dispersal of ash.
Iceland is home to 30 active volcanoes. The authorities have put in place man-made barriers to redirect lava flows away from critical infrastructure. This includes the Svartsengi Geothermal Power Plant, the Blue Lagoon Outdoor Spa, and the town of Grindavik. However, in view of the recent eruption, The Blue Lagoon spa and hotel said it had shut down and evacuated its guests.
Also Read: Amid The Rising Trend Of Volcano Tourism, Is It REALLY Safe To Explore Volcanic Sites?
Due to the many active volcanoes, Iceland is one of the few places in the world that offers volcano tourism. Would you be interested in visiting this country to experience this in person? Let us know in the comments!
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@Verone3784
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