COPENHAGEN – A volcano in Iceland continued to emit smoke and lava for a second consecutive day on Thursday, while authorities assured that prevailing winds would carry the poisonous gas pollution away from the capital, Reykjavik.
This eruption, the fifth since December, is the most powerful in the area since the volcanic systems on the Reykjanes peninsula reawakened three years ago after being dormant for eight centuries, according to the Icelandic Met Office.
The town of Grindavik, which had previously seen several homes destroyed by lava earlier this year, was once again under an evacuation order. The nearby Blue Lagoon outdoor spa, a popular tourist destination, was also evacuated.
While volcanic activity decreased late Wednesday, it remained steady through the night, the Civil Protection agency reported. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
“Westerly winds are expected today, and gas pollution may then spread to the east over southern Iceland,” the agency stated. Air quality sensors indicated that conditions remained “very good” in and around Reykjavik, although a station closer to the eruption registered levels as “unhealthy for the sensitive.”
Lava on Wednesday flowed over the main road towards Grindavik, and by Thursday, images in local media showed the road partially covered by a large mass of dried black rock. The lava flows also reached the protective dykes built around Grindavik, diverting the molten rock westward around the town, according to the met office. Despite the ongoing volcanic activity, Keflavik airport, Iceland’s largest, continues to operate as usual.
This ongoing eruption highlights the dynamic and powerful nature of Iceland’s volcanic landscape, continuing to captivate both residents and the international community with its dramatic displays.