Seismic activity rises near Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland as experts warn of potential volcanic eruption

Seismic activity has been increasing around the Reykjanes Peninsula, similar to the patterns observed before the last volcanic eruption. The Icelandic Meteorological Office reported an uptick in seismicity over the weekend, with approximately 110 earthquakes detected, a rise from the 60 to 90 quakes per day recorded in the previous week. While most of these tremors were below magnitude 1.0, two measured over 2.0 during the weekend, marking the largest since the last eruption.

Experts have noted that pressure is building in the area, resembling the conditions leading up to the previous eruption. The land is still rising near Svartsengi, with magma accumulating in the chamber beneath at a similar rate as in recent days. Current magma volumes under Svartsengi now exceed those recorded before the last eruption, heightening chances of imminent volcanic activity.

Natural hazard specialist Lovísa Mjöll Guðmundsdóttir stated that the seismic activity mirrors not only the number but also the magnitude of earthquakes that occurred prior to the last eruption. She emphasized that while the earthquakes are becoming larger and more frequent, it remains uncertain if the geological system requires additional pressure to trigger an eruption, as has been the case in previous events.

Local residents are advised to remain vigilant as the situation develops, with the possibility of volcanic activity occurring at any moment. The authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates as necessary.