A volcano in Iceland has erupted for the fifth time in recent months. Lava is expected to travel towards the nearby town of Grindavรญk.
- A new eruption started on the Reykjanes Peninsula near the capital Reykjavรญk
- Red-hot molten lava is flowing towards the town of Grindavรญk
- Authorities evacuated the area before the eruption began
Will the lava reach and damage buildings in Grindavรญk? Read on to learn more details!
Eruption Just Getting Started
The eruption is still in its early stages. Streams of fiery lava are gushing out along a long crack or fissure in the ground over 2.5 km (1.5 miles) long.
Right now, molten lava shoots up to 50-70 meters (165-230 feet) into the air from many areas along the fissure. Scientists call these ‘lava fountains.’
“It usually takes a few hours for the eruption to stabilize,” explained one volcano expert.
Over the next day or so, the full extent of the fissure crack will become clear. The eruption will likely settle down and focus the lava flow around specific points instead of along the whole length.
Lava Headed Towards Grindavรญk (Again)
This is already the fifth eruption in the same area since volcanic activity started last year. In some previous eruptions, the fast-moving lava streams reached the main road leading to Grindavรญk.
The current lava flow travels west in a similar direction as before, towards that road and the town itself. Protective walls have been built to divert lava from entering Grindavรญk, but their effectiveness is still uncertain.
Local officials say there is currently no imminent danger to people, as Grindavรญk has been evacuated as a precaution. However, depending on the lava’s path, the town’s infrastructure and utilities could be impacted.
Eruption Anticipated But Unpredictable
Based on monitoring data, scientists had expected another eruption in this area. However, it is very hard to predict fully exactly when and where a volcano will erupt.
“The eruption starts and expands in different directions. It’s difficult to define the full extent from a distance,” one expert stated.
The intensity and precise path of the lava flow will become clearer over the next 24 hours as the eruption’s initial burst settles down.
Repeated Disruptions for Region
While eruptions in the region are not new, the recurring lava flows have caused repeated disruptions and concerns. Hot water supplies were temporarily cut off to part of the Reykjanes Peninsula in January due to the lava.
Residents and officials are understandably wary about the potential impacts on transportation routes, utilities, and key infrastructure like power plants if the lava encroaches too close once again.
Only time will tell if protective measures can divert the lava away from populated areas during this latest eruption. However, the uncertainty is understandably worrying for those living in the region.
Based on the eruption so far, do you think the lava will ultimately threaten neighborhoods and facilities in Grindavรญk? Share your thoughts in the comments!
