Fifth Volcanic Eruption on Reykjanes Peninsula Triggers Evacuations

May 29, 2024, 02:42 PM

A new volcanic eruption has commenced on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula, marking the fifth such event since December 2023. The eruption, which began on May 29, has led to the evacuation of residents in the nearby town of Grindavík and the popular Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. Authorities have issued a state of emergency, and the National Police Commissioner has declared the flight color code as red due to potential ash distribution. The eruption has opened a fissure approximately 3.4 km long, with lava spewing at an estimated rate of 1,500-2,000 m³/s. The lava flow has reached Grindavíkurveg road and is approaching the defensive walls at Grindavík and the NATO communications center. The fissure, part of the Sundhnúksgígaröður crater series, has lava reaching heights of 50 meters (165 ft) and extends 1.5 miles. Over 150 earthquakes were detected in the hours leading up to the eruption, indicating significant seismic activity. The Icelandic Meteorological Office has been closely monitoring the situation, providing real-time updates as the event unfolds.