Holidaymakers planning a trip to Iceland have been warned after a volcano on the Reykjanes peninsula erupted once again, threatening a major tourist site in the country. Satellite images captured the extent of the volcanic activity, with rivers of molten lava flowing across the landscape. The eruption, which started on November 20, followed a period of relative calm in the area. Prior to the eruption, earthquakes signalled the activity beneath the surface.
The Icelandic Meteorological Office reported that the eruption site was near the Stóra Skógfell peak, close to where a similar event occurred earlier in the year. Images from satellites highlighted the intensity of the eruption, with the glow outshining even the lights of the capital city, Reykjavík. While flights to and from Iceland remained unaffected by the plume of sulfur dioxide gas rising from the fissure, local residents near the town of Grindavík were forced to evacuate.
The iconic Blue Lagoon, a popular geothermal spa, was also evacuated as a precautionary measure. Lava from the eruption spread in different directions, sparing some areas but causing destruction to the spa’s car park and a service building. This eruption marks the seventh in a series that began in December 2023. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation due to the unpredictability of volcanic activity in the region.
Although the lava movement towards the Blue Lagoon has slowed in recent days, the spa remains closed. The Icelandic authorities continue to emphasise the need for vigilance and preparedness in the face of such natural phenomena. The eruption serves as a reminder of the raw power of nature and the need for travellers to stay informed and exercise caution when visiting regions prone to volcanic activity.
As tourists consider their travel plans, it is crucial to heed local authorities’ advice and stay updated on the situation in Iceland. The recent volcanic eruption serves as a captivating yet poignant reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the Earth’s geology. Whether it is the mesmerising beauty of flowing lava or the potential risks posed by such events, travellers must remain informed and adaptable in the face of nature’s forces.