Sixth Eruption Since December in Iceland
In southwestern Iceland, a volcano erupted yet again on Thursday evening, marking the sixth eruption since December. This time, vibrant red lava burst through a new fissure on the Reykjanes Peninsula, creating a mesmerizing natural display.
Eruption Follows Earthquakes, Creates New Fissure
The eruption started shortly after 9 p.m., following a series of strong earthquakes in the region. Within an hour, the volcanic activity had created a 4-kilometer (2.4-mile) fissure cutting through the Sundhnúkur crater.
Authorities Assure Public: No Immediate Danger
Despite the dramatic scene, Icelandic authorities have reassured the public that the effects of the eruption are localized. Some roads have been closed, but there is no immediate threat to the population.
Lava Flow Avoids Town of Grindavik
Halldór Björnsson, head of weather and climate at the Norwegian Meteorological Agency, spoke to the Icelandic news portal Vísir, noting that this eruption differs from previous ones. Unlike past eruptions, the lava flow is not heading towards the town of Grindavik, which saw a large evacuation in December after the volcano awakened from an 800-year dormancy.
Geophysicist’s Observations: No Threat to Grindavik
Magnús Tuma Guðmundsson, a geophysicist who flew over the eruption sites this evening, commented on the situation. “If this continues as it is, Grindavík won’t be in danger. Of course, we can’t predict the future, but it’s likely that the eruption has reached its peak and will soon start to subside, much like the others,” he said.
Spectators Flock to Witness the Eruption
As news of the eruption spread, hundreds of curious onlookers rushed to nearby vantage points to witness the breathtaking natural phenomenon, which has now become a major tourist attraction.
“We thought it was the northern lights at first,” said Mahnoor Ali, a visitor from Maryland, USA. “But honestly, this is the coolest thing I’ve ever seen in my life.”
Visitors Share Their Experiences
Ameerul Awalludin from Malaysia and Shohei Miyamito from Japan were with a local friend when they heard the news and quickly made their way to the eruption site. “We have volcanoes back home,” said Miyamito, “but we can’t see lava like this.”
Air Travel Unaffected by Eruption
Fortunately, the eruption isn’t expected to impact air travel, allowing the spectacle to be enjoyed without major disruptions.