A powerful volcanic eruption has struck the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland, forcing the evacuation of the nearby town of Grindavík and the world-famous Blue Lagoon spa.
The eruption, which began at 09:45 local time, opened a fissure approximately 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) long, with lava flows continuing to extend southward.
The eruption was preceded by a series of early-morning earthquakes in the Sundhnúk crater range, signaling increased volcanic activity. Authorities had already ordered evacuations in anticipation of the event, and roads leading into Grindavík remain closed. However, flights in and out of Iceland are currently unaffected.
The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) confirmed that a second fissure opened shortly after the initial eruption. Reports later emerged of a hot water pipeline breaking in northern Grindavík, indicating significant ground movements.
While most of Grindavík’s 4,000 residents had already relocated following previous eruptions, around 40 homes remained occupied. Authorities urged any remaining individuals to leave immediately. Icelandic media reported that some had initially refused to comply with evacuation orders.
The ongoing volcanic activity marks the latest in a series of eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, which has been active since 2021. The region previously experienced centuries of dormancy, with its last prolonged eruption cycle occurring 800 years ago and lasting for decades.
The magma forming under the crater series on Tuesday measured approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) in length—the longest since November 2023—extending the magma corridor 3 kilometers (1.86 miles) further northeast than in past eruptions. The IMO warned that gas pollution from the eruption would likely drift northeast toward Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík, depending on wind direction.
Iceland, home to 33 active volcanic systems, sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where two massive tectonic plates meet. The country frequently experiences volcanic activity, with multiple eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula in recent years.
As authorities monitor the evolving situation, the Blue Lagoon spa has announced it will remain closed through at least Tuesday. Emergency responders continue to assess the damage, and officials remain on high alert for further seismic activity.
