A volcanic eruption has started in Iceland. Several areas have been evacuated, reports the state broadcaster Ruv. A crack has appeared that is around 3.9 kilometers long. Within 40 minutes, it grew 1.5 kilometers longer, according to the Meteorological Institute, which monitors the country’s volcanoes. Police officer Víðir Reynisson of the Icelandic Civil Defense informs Ruv that the evacuation of the Blue Lagoon, Grindavík and Svartsengi has been successful. 1,300 guests and employees were evacuated from the Blue Lagoon, says marketing manager Helga Árnadóttir. The people have either been accommodated in another hotel or have gone to their own homes. – We have done this several times before, she says. Grindavik has close to 4,000 inhabitants, but most have been evacuated since November. Sixth since December This is the volcano’s sixth eruption since December. According to Ruv, the eruption in the Sundhnúka craters started at 21:26 local time, or 23:26 Norwegian time. One hour before this, an earthquake started. Glowing lava and smoke are visible from the volcano, which is in its sixth eruption since December. The previous outbreak ended on June 22, after lasting 24 days. Flights to and from Keflavik are not affected, the airport states on its website. Could last for hundreds of years Scientists have warned that the Reykjaneshalvøya may experience repeated volcanic eruptions in the coming decades, and even for several centuries to come. Since 2021, there have been nine eruptions on the peninsula, after the geological systems had been dormant for 800 years. As a result, the authorities have built barriers to direct lava flows away from critical infrastructure, including the Svartsengi power plant. Iceland has over 30 active volcanoes, making the country Europe’s main destination for volcano tourists. Published 23.08.2024, at 01.59
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Volcanic eruption in southwest Iceland – news Norway – Overview of news from different parts of the country
