A powerful volcanic eruption shook Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula early Wednesday, sending rivers of lava spewing from fissures just miles from the iconic Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. It marks the ninth eruption in the region since late 2023, underlining what scientists call a new era of geological activity.
The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) reported that the eruption began just before 4 AM local time, with live footage capturing molten lava bursting from the ground. Authorities later confirmed that the main fissure stretched 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) and had a second, approximately 500-meter-long, fissure opening nearby.
As a safety precaution, the fishing village of Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon spa, a major tourist destination, were both evacuated. Approximately 100 residents and staff members were safely relocated. Police also blocked tourists from entering the area, acknowledging the public’s fascination but stressing the risks. “Of course, we understand that this is a fascinating event,” said police commissioner Margrét Kristín Pálsdóttir. “But safety must come first.”
Residents nearby were advised to remain indoors due to high levels of toxic gas, though officials assured the public that the smoke is non-toxic at this stage.
Volcanologists say this eruption appears less intense than previous ones and is currently not threatening infrastructure. The last eruption in the area occurred in April, and a risk report published just one day earlier had predicted no new activity until autumn. Geophysicist Benedikt Ófeigsson told national broadcaster RUV that while the eruption is significant, it does not currently pose a threat to buildings or roads.
New Volcanic Era in Iceland
The Reykjanes peninsula had been dormant for over 800 years until volcanic activity resumed in 2021. Since then, frequent eruptions have forced evacuations and dramatically altered the local landscape. Iceland sits directly on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. It is home to 33 active volcanic systems, the highest number in Europe.
Authorities continue to closely monitor the situation, while geologists warn that more frequent eruptions could become the norm for this seismically active region.