Seismic activity increases around Sundhnúkur volcanic system in Iceland

Seismic activity continues to intensify around the Sundhnúkur volcanic system, with two quakes measuring above magnitude two recorded last night, bringing the total to six tremors of this size in the past week. This indicates that pressure is steadily increasing in the area.

Recent assessments reveal that magma accumulation and land uplift have remained consistent over the past few days, with the volume of magma beneath Svartsengi now exceeding levels recorded prior to recent seismic events. Consequently, there is a significant likelihood of a new lava flow and possibly a volcanic eruption in the Sandhnúkur volcanic system.

Current hazard assessments and scenarios remain unchanged. Seismological data illustrates the ongoing trend of magma accumulation and the estimated total volume of magma in the reservoir beneath Svartsengi since October 25. The overall volume of magma now present is greater than what has been observed before previous eruptions.