Iceland Volcano Erupts: Lava Engulfs Grindavík, Buildings Ablaze
Southwest Iceland is facing a dramatic natural disaster as a volcano eruption sends molten lava into Grindavík, a nearby fishing town, resulting in the burning of buildings. This is the second eruption the area has experienced in recent weeks.
Grindavík, under evacuation orders, has fortunately not faced any immediate threat to its residents. A webcam operated by Iceland’s RUV broadcaster captured the lava's destructive path, showing it flowing perilously close to unscathed houses.
Iceland’s Civil Protection Agency had previously warned about the potential for lava to damage infrastructure, despite the construction of anti-lava barriers. Following the eruption, the National Commissioner of Police reinforced evacuation orders, initially issued in November, with a deadline set for residents to leave the town by Monday night.
So far, 60 households, accounting for 10% of Grindavík's usual population, have been evacuated, according to spokesperson Hjordis Gudmundsdottir. Many residents had not returned after last month’s eruption, and thankfully, there has been no danger to human life.
The eruption has prompted authorities to raise the alert level, and an Icelandic Coast Guard helicopter is monitoring the situation. Interestingly, this eruption has not impacted air travel, as it has not produced ash, which can be detrimental to flights. Grindavík’s Keflavik airport remains operational, with air travel generally unaffected.
This latest volcanic activity follows weeks of seismic activity, including an earthquake reported hours before the eruption. Grindavík, located about 70 kilometers southwest of Reykjavík, is a renowned tourist destination, famous for the Blue Lagoon, a popular geothermal spa.
The Civil Protection Agency has indicated that the evacuation order might remain in effect for three weeks, with limited exceptions for essential activities or residents salvaging valuables.
This latest eruption has prompted a reassessment of the risks associated with volcanic fissures, leading to the current evacuation order. The magma level is similar to that of December's eruption, but there is a risk of it migrating further south, potentially affecting more areas of Grindavík.
Authorities declared a state of emergency in November, recognizing the significant threat posed by the ongoing volcanic activity.