Iceland’s Volcano Erupts for the Sixth Time in 2021, Sending Lava Soaring into the Air
A stunning volcanic eruption has once again captivated the world as Iceland’s southwestern Reykjanes peninsula experiences its sixth outbreak this year. The volcano, which erupted on Thursday, sent lava shooting up to an impressive height of 80 meters (260 feet) into the air. Live footage from the area showcased bright-orange molten rock gushing out from fissures in the ground, creating a stark contrast against the dark night sky.
The country’s meteorological office issued a warning about the eruption, stating, “Warning: A volcanic eruption started north of Sylingarfell.” The eruption was preceded by intense earthquake activity at around 5:30 a.m., with the outbreak commencing approximately 30 minutes later. The eruptive fissure spanned approximately 3 kilometers (2 miles) in length, and it was believed to be in the same location as a previous eruption on December 18.
As a precautionary measure, the nearby geothermal spa Blue Lagoon was closed. This move aimed to ensure the safety of visitors and staff in light of the volcanic activity. The previous eruption in January lasted for about two days, with lava flows reaching the outskirts of Grindavik fishing town. The nearly 4,000 inhabitants of Grindavik had been evacuated, and some houses were unfortunately engulfed in flames.
However, this recent eruption occurred at a considerable distance from Grindavik and was unlikely to directly threaten the town. Icelandic geophysicist Ari Trausti Gudmundsson reassured Reuters that while there might be some risk to the road leading to Grindavik, as well as the power plant and even the Blue Lagoon, it all depended on the amount of lava that ultimately flowed from the ground.
These eruptions in Reykjanes are known as fissure eruptions, often referred to as Icelandic-type eruptions. Unlike explosive eruptions that produce significant amounts of ash, these fissure eruptions are characterized by the outpouring of lava through cracks in the Earth’s surface. As a result, they do not typically pose a threat to aviation or cause widespread disruption.
Reykjavik’s international Keflavik airport remained open and operational, with airport operator Isavia confirming that it was functioning “in the usual way.” This news will come as a relief to travelers and locals alike, as disruptions to air travel can have far-reaching consequences.
In November, Icelandic authorities began constructing dykes to divert lava flows away from homes and critical infrastructure. Despite downgrading the volcanic system’s threat level, local authorities have cautioned that further eruptions may occur due to the continued rise of land in the area caused by underground magma accumulation.
Iceland’s unique geological landscape, roughly the size of the U.S. state of Kentucky, boasts over 30 active volcanoes. This makes the North European island a prime destination for volcano tourism, attracting thousands of thrill-seekers who are eager to witness the raw power of nature up close.
As Iceland’s volcano continues to captivate the world with its fiery displays, it serves as a reminder of the awe-inspiring forces that shape our planet. While these eruptions may cause temporary disruptions and pose risks to specific areas, they also offer a glimpse into the extraordinary beauty and power of Earth’s geological wonders.