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State of emergency declared for Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland due to volcanic threat

Wednesday 24th 2024 on 18:32 in  
Iceland

A state of emergency has been declared for the Reykjanes Peninsula due to increased seismic activity, according to updated threat assessments from the Icelandic Meteorological Office. The emergency status indicates a heightened likelihood of volcanic eruptions or lava flows within the next two to three weeks, particularly in the vicinity of the town of Grindavík.

Officials report that seismic tremors have continued, with land subsidence evident over recent weeks. Two main scenarios are considered likely if an eruption occurs. The first involves activity between Stóra-Skógfell and Sundhnúkur, potentially allowing lava to reach the Grindavíkur road near Þorbjörn in under 90 minutes and the road by Svartsengi in less than three hours. The second scenario suggests eruptions may occur south of Sundhnúk, near Hagafell or south of it, which could direct lava to Nesvegur and Suðurstrandavegur within a similar timeframe.

Elísabet Pálmadóttir, a natural hazard expert at the meteorological office, noted the possibility of fissures opening within Grindavík or in the protective barriers surrounding the town, citing the area’s fractured geology as a contributing factor.

The declaration of a state of emergency is a response to these assessments, highlighting the potential for rapid volcanic activity. Emergency management officials stress the risks associated with the current geological instability and the need for preparedness among local residents.

Source 
(via ruv.is)