In brief
Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula is witnessing a significant volcanic eruption, starting shortly after 09:45 local time.
The eruption, which has opened a crack 700 meters wide, follows a series of earthquakes that began earlier in the morning, necessitating the evacuation of Grindavík and nearby tourist sites. Authorities have confirmed that the fissure has expanded, with officials advising residents to leave, especially as previous volcanic activity has already seen many evacuated from the area. The length of the magma tunnel associated with the eruption is approximately 11 kilometers, marking a considerable geological development since November 2023. Wind patterns indicate that gas emissions from the eruption may affect the capital region. Multiple eruptions have occurred in this area since 2021, a stark reminder of Iceland’s volatile geological nature, influenced by its position on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, an active tectonic boundary.
