Eruptions prompt evacuation of Grindavík as volcanic activity intensifies on Reykjanes Peninsula

Eruptions have begun on the Reykjanes Peninsula, with an immediate evacuation of the town of Grindavík. The volcanic activity commenced at 21:26 GMT following a significant earthquake swarm that started about an hour earlier.

The evacuation process is nearing completion, as confirmed by Einar Sveinn Jónsson, the fire chief of Grindavík, who indicated that everything proceeded as planned during the evacuation. The area’s prior experience with similar events has made the process well-rehearsed.

As of shortly after the eruption, large plumes of smoke and a lengthy fissure have been observed. Media personnel on-site report the visibility of the eruption’s effects, as the smoke rises high above the area. For continuous updates on the volcanic activity, local stations Rás 2 and RÚV 2 are broadcasting live coverage.

Emergency responders are focusing their efforts on protecting Grindavík and the nearby Svartsengi area, although details regarding the lava flow remain unclear. The use of lava cooling methods will be evaluated once more information is available.

Residents have been advised to stay away from the eruption site for safety reasons. The volcanic event is occurring in a similar location to the last eruption from the Sundhnúkur crater row, which is also part of the current activity.

In response to the escalating seismic activity and pressure changes in the area, the Icelandic Meteorological Office has activated emergency protocols. An emergency response center has been established, with coordinated efforts now in place to handle the situation efficiently.