A Volcanic eruption commenced on Monday night in the Reykjanes Peninsula of Iceland, transforming the night sky into a vivid orange hue and prompting civil defense forces into high alert.
Volcanic eruption in Iceland
According to the Icelandic Meteorological Office, the eruption seemingly occurred approximately 3 kilometers from the town of Grindavik. Video footage from the scene showcased the volcanic lava, or semi-melted rocks, streaming down the hill ranges.
Meanwhile, a volcano erupts in Iceland. pic.twitter.com/CnNlXU4w5n
— Rami Jarrah (@RamiJarrah) December 19, 2023
The eruption’s proximity to Grindavik, a fishing town with a population of about 3,400 people, situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula, approximately 50 kilometers southwest of the capital Reykjavik and near Keflavik Airport, Iceland’s main hub for international flights, raises concerns.
In November, seismic activity in the area led to the evacuation of Grindavik, with homes destroyed and fears of an imminent eruption. Coast Guard helicopters are now tasked with confirming the eruption’s exact location and size.
As a precaution, the nearby Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, one of Iceland’s top tourist attractions, has been closed until at least the end of December due to the volcanic threat.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Reykjanes Peninsula, near Grindavik, Iceland |
| Eruption Start | Monday night |
| Distance from Grindavik | Approx. 3 km |
| Impact | Transformed night sky, civil defense alert |
| Population of Grindavik | 3,400 residents |
| Proximity to Reykjavik | 50 km southwest |
| Nearby Facilities | Keflavik Airport, Blue Lagoon geothermal spa |
| Safety Measures | Evacuation in November, spa closure |
| Current Actions | Coast Guard helicopter monitoring |
This eruption serves as a stark reminder of the dynamic and unpredictable nature of Iceland’s volcanic landscape, impacting local communities and tourist attractions alike.
