Evacuation Ordered on Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland Amid New Volcanic Eruption

On May 29, 2024, authorities ordered an evacuation of parts of the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland following increased volcanic activity. The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) confirmed that a new eruptive episode had begun in the early afternoon.

The region has been experiencing heightened seismic activity and ground deformation since late 2023, signaling another magma propagation. The Sundhnukur crater row area, where the current eruption is centered, has been under close observation by the IMO.

Evacuation orders were issued for the Blue Lagoon Hotel and Spa and the town of Grindavik. Most of Grindavik's nearly 4,000 residents had already been evacuated since November 2023, with only a few dozen having returned. Defensive barriers have been constructed around key infrastructure to prevent damage from lava flows.

The eruption, which began following a series of earthquakes north of Grindavik, saw lava shooting about 50 meters into the sky from a fissure approximately 1 kilometer long. The IMO had previously warned of intense seismic activity indicating that a magma propagation might be starting or had already started.

The volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula has significant implications for the safety of residents and tourists, which also has the potential to disrupt air travel and daily life. The eruption could lead to widespread damage, displacement, and economic losses, making it a critical situation to monitor and respond to.

The eruption is the fifth to occur on the Reykjanes Peninsula since December 2023. Previous incidents have led to evacuations, road closures, and the destruction of several houses in Grindavik. The Svartsengi power plant, which supplies electricity and water to around 30,000 people, has been evacuated and is being operated remotely.

Depending on the development of volcanic activity, officials may expand evacuation orders and close roads in the region at short notice. Potential impacts include transport disruptions, lava flows blocking highways, and ashfall reducing visibility and causing hazardous driving conditions. There is also an increased threat to air traffic, which could disrupt flights at Keflavik International Airport.

Emergency responders are on-site, with additional personnel on their way to assist and inform people. The Red Cross has set up a registration process for evacuees at 1717 or at their main office in Reykjavík.

This new eruption marks a significant event in what volcanologists believe to be a fresh chapter of seismic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula, which had not experienced an eruption for eight centuries until March 2021.

The situation remains dynamic, and residents and tourists are advised to heed instructions from local authorities, monitor local news for updates, and confirm flights if traveling.

Key Takeaways

• Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula evacuated due to increased volcanic activity.
• New eruptive episode began on May 29, 2024, with lava shooting 50m into the sky.
• Evacuation orders issued for Blue Lagoon Hotel and town of Grindavik.
• Eruption could disrupt air travel, daily life, and cause widespread damage.
• This is the 5th eruption on the peninsula since December 2023.