Iceland's renowned Blue Lagoon and the neighboring town of Grindavik underwent evacuation on Saturday following a volcanic eruption in the Reykjanes Peninsula, as reported by Iceland's public broadcaster RÚV.
According to RÚV, lava was observed flowing swiftly towards the north of Grindavik, replicating the pattern seen during the eruption on February 8. Furthermore, RUV indicated that lava was also advancing towards the Grindavíkurvegur road, the primary route leading to Grindavik.
The eruption, spanning approximately three kilometers from Stóra-Skógfell to Hagafell, was noted by the Icelandic Met Office, reported RUV.
Despite this volcanic activity, Iceland's major international airport, Keflavik Airport, and other regional airports remain operational, as per RUV. However, the town near the airport may experience volcanic gas emissions detectable on Sunday, RUV noted.
Geophysicist Magnús Tumi Guðmundsson, after conducting an aerial survey of the site, described the current eruption as the most potent among recent seismic events. He estimated the fissure to be approximately 3.5 kilometers wide, extending from the northern side of Hagafell to Stóra-Skógfell.
Guðmundsson predicted that given the lava flow's speed, it would not be long before it reaches and crosses the Grindavíkurvegur road.
Geophysicist Páll Einarsson, analyzing the seismic activity at Grindavík, noted a consistent pattern since October, with intermittent magma flows sometimes reaching the surface. He described earlier eruptions as brief but intense events.
Situated a short drive from Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon stands as a popular tourist destination. Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, along with Keflavik International Airport, the lagoon attracts visitors due to its unique geological features.
Iceland, known for its active volcanic landscape, is characterized by a rift valley on the Reykjanes Peninsula, marked by lava fields and cones.
Earlier in March, the Blue Lagoon faced evacuation due to seismic activity, and in November, it underwent a temporary closure following a surge of 1,400 earthquakes within 24 hours.
