Iceland declares state of emergency on Reykjanes Peninsula due to seismic activity

Authorities in Iceland have declared a state of emergency on the Reykjanes Peninsula due to increased seismic activity. This decision is based on updated risk assessments from the Icelandic Meteorological Office, which indicate a high likelihood of volcanic eruptions occurring within two to three weeks.

Recent seismic activity has included nine minor earthquakes overnight, and there are concerns about magma migration beneath the surface. The risk of an eruption is particularly acute in the vicinity of Grindavík, a town situated near the peninsula. If a volcanic event occurs, two potential scenarios have been identified:

In the first scenario, the eruption could take place between Stóra-Skógfell and Sundhnúk, with lava potentially reaching the Grindavík road within 90 minutes and the Svartsengi area in under three hours.

The second scenario suggests that the eruption could occur south of Sundhnúk, near Hagafell, allowing lava flows to reach critical roadways, potentially blocking escape routes within approximately six hours.

Officials from the Icelandic Meteorological Office have highlighted the possibility that fissures could open within Grindavík, possibly leading to localized lava flows. Authorities emphasize the need for preparedness given the unpredictable nature of volcanic activity in the area.

The emergency declaration comes as part of ongoing monitoring and assessment efforts to manage and mitigate the impact of potential natural disasters in the region.