Seismic activity subsides in Southwest Iceland, volcanic threat persists

Seismic activity in south-west Iceland has shown signs of calming, although scientists maintain a persistent warning of an imminent volcanic eruption. The Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced over 500 earthquakes since midnight, yet they have been comparatively weaker than those of the preceding two days.

Despite this apparent respite, experts emphasize that a 15km-long (9 mile) river of magma beneath the peninsula remains active, posing a continued threat to the evacuated town of Grindavik. Most tremors have concentrated under the town, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of residents, and resulting in visible cracks on town roads due to subsidence.

Situated a mere 15km south of Keflavik International Airport, Grindavik’s proximity raises concerns among travelers, recalling the disruptions caused by the Eyjafjallajokull eruption in April 2010. Although flights continue to operate normally, fears persist among travelers about potential air travel disruptions.

Gisli Gunnarsson, a 29-year-old music composer forced to abandon Grindavik, shared his apprehensions, stating, “First and foremost, the thought that you might never see your home town ever again, that’s tough.” His account highlights the emotional toll the situation has taken on the evacuated residents.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office has declared a state of emergency, emphasizing a considerable risk of eruption. Professor Thor Thordason from the University of Iceland disclosed that magma is now less than 800m below the surface, indicating an imminent eruption, with the unfortunate possibility that Grindavik might be directly affected.

As the region remains on high alert, the Icelandic people brace themselves for a potential volcanic event that could reshape their landscape and evoke memories of past disruptions caused by natural forces.