ICELAND VOLCANO ERUPTION 2024 - LATEST UPDATES

The most recent eruption started on on November 20, shortly before midnight, marking the seventh eruption in the crater row and the 10th eruption since the Reykjanes volcanoes reawakened.

As with previous eruptions, Keflavík Airport remains fully operational. Flights have not been affected by the recent volcanic activity and continue to run on schedule. All risks and dangers are confined to the immediate area surrounding the eruption. Just a few kilometers away, life continues as normal. Travel remains safe and entirely unaffected.

The eruption area is currently closed, and authorities are advising visitors to avoid attempting to access the site. However, the smoke and glowing lava are visible from various locations in Reykjavík, including the Sky Lagoon and Perlan's observation deck.

Both Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon have been closed and are inaccessible to visitors until further notice from the authorities.

The Wake of Fagradalsfjall

Iceland, renowned as one of our planet's most active volcanic regions, experiences eruptions approximately every four years on average. However, due to their frequency, recent volcanic activities on the Reykjanes Peninsula have captured worldwide attention.

The 2021 eruption at Fagradalsfjall volcanic system ended an 800-year period of dormancy on the Reykjanes peninsula, Iceland’s southwestern peninsula that hosts the international airport and the world-famous Blue Lagoon.

This first eruption, named Geldingadalir, occurred in an uninhabited area and posed no direct threat to human life or infrastructure. This eruption, lasting for about six months, became a global spectacle and served as a valuable source of information for geologists and volcanologists.

Following the 2021 event, two more eruptions, Meradalir and Litli-Hrútur, occurred in the same volcanic system over the next two years. These eruptions continued the pattern of gentle effusion seen in 2021, but lasted only for three weeks each.

Their non-explosive nature allowed lava to flow smoothly, making these eruptions safe to observe from a distance. They took place in an uninhabited area, where local authorities established designated hiking trails to allow the public to witness the phenomenon safely.

As a result, tens of thousands of visitors trekked to these sites, experiencing the volcanic eruptions firsthand. For many, this journey became an intensely memorable and unparalleled travel adventure, likely etching itself as a once-in-a-lifetime experience in their memories.

However, the situation took a turn as these initially tourist-friendly volcanic events began to pose threats to the local community. In late October 2023, the Icelandic Meteorological Office recorded a surge in seismic activity. Unlike previous 2021/22 eruptions, the data suggested that this time, the lava might be accumulating directly underneath a small town called Grindavík, home to nearly 4,000 residents. A precautionary evacuation of Grindavík was ordered.

In December, a volcanic fissure eruption occurred approximately four kilometers northeast of Grindavík. While the eruption's intensity diminished rapidly, concluding after three days, another fissure erupted in the same crater chain, in January, 2024, resulting in lava engulfing three residential houses.

Due to the timely evacuation efforts, the houses were all empty. By the following morning, the lava flow towards the town had halted. The eruption in the initial, longer fissure also ended after less than 50 hours.

Further volcanic eruptions occurred at the Sundhnúkagígar crater rows this year. The February eruption was brief, lasting less than 24 hours. In March, an eruption began with intense magma discharge and continued for nearly two months. After a short break, the next eruption occurred in May and featured impressive lava fountains, with activity consolidating into one vent before ending after 24 days. The August eruption near a previous site started with a long fissure but declined quickly, lasting 14 days.

The most recent eruption started on November 20, marking the seventh eruption in the crater row and the 10th eruption since the Reykjanes volcanoes reawakened. If the eruption follows the same pattern as before, the activity is likely to decrease quickly, potentially ending after a few days, or continue at low intensity for weeks or even months before pausing again.

This type of episodic volcanic activity is expected to persist for years, possibly even decades, as part of the ongoing reactivation of the Reykjanes volcanic system. Scientists closely monitor these eruptions to better understand the region's geological processes and assess potential risks.

The residents of Grindavík and the surrounding areas have been on an emotional rollercoaster ever since the first eruption occurred in 2021. They have earned a distinctive nickname - the "GrindaVíkings." Their nickname has become a symbol of their enduring spirit and the solidarity that defines their community.

The impact of the recent volcanic activity has been devastating. The infrastructure of the town has been severely compromised, with cracked and broken walls and numerous hidden holes beneath the ground, leaving much uncertainty about what other dangers might lurk unseen.

Locals are forced to seek new homes permanently. However, in these challenging times, the strength and solidarity of our society have shone through. Residents of Grindavík have been offered places to stay, ensuring that no one is left without shelter or support.

The government has also stepped in, taking measures to alleviate the financial burden on the affected families and pay off their now uninhabitable houses.

These collective efforts to help the residents of Grindavík highlight not only the resilience of the Icelandic people but also their strong commitment to supporting each other through even the most difficult times.

From a geological perspective, these eruptions have been invaluable in understanding the behaviour of so-called “shield volcanoes, " known for their gentle slopes and effusive eruptions.

The study of the lava and its composition has shed light on the mantle source and the tectonic activities beneath the Earth's surface. The magma we see in the most recent eruptions is distinctly different from the materials of previous eruptions.

The last volcanic activity here occurred between 1210 and 1240, concluding a four centuries of active volcanic phase. At that time, a different type of magma caused the prolonged volcanic activity. The question now is, what capabilities does this completely different magma type possess?

At present, it seems we are at the beginning of another lengthy volcanic period, and the future is still very much uncertain. The duration of the eruption phase can be inferred from the volcanic activity patterns of the past few thousand years. However, this is the first time we are experiencing such an event, living through every hour and day of it, while experts document and interpret incoming signals around the clock, utilising valuable scientific data, such as the chemical composition of the magma that surfaces.

There is still much to discover in these areas, with many currently working on it. When did the magma feeding the current eruption form, and why is its chemical composition so different from previous ones? These may help us better understand what is happening and why in such a complex tectonic and volcanic event. Decision-makers and society await answers and news, most importantly, when another volcanic eruption can be expected.

We are not blessed with the ability to see into the future; hence, we can only rely on what observations and scientific data show. This information is crucial for improving predictive models for future volcanic activities and understanding volcanic hazards in similar geological settings.

It's important to note that these recent volcanic activities have fostered international scientific collaboration, with experts from various countries contributing to the research and have also accelerated advancements in volcanic monitoring technology and data analysis, highlighting the importance of ongoing research and collaboration in the field of volcanology.

The recent eruptions offer a unique opportunity to observe the ecological transformations that can arise from volcanic activity and how local ecosystems adapt to volcanic disturbances.

In terms of air quality and climate, these eruptions have had minimal impact, given their effusive nature and relatively low emission of volcanic gases.

As the lava flows from these eruptions cooled and solidified, they began to lay the foundation for new landscapes. However, while creating new landforms and potentially enriching the soil with minerals over time, the lava flows initially destroyed existing habitats for plants and wildlife, leading to a loss of biodiversity in the affected areas. However, these dramatic changes can offer valuable insights into ecological succession and resilience.

Some of these eruption sites have also become tourist attractions and hold great educational value, enhancing public and scientific understanding of Earth sciences.

The Reykjanes eruptions had a varying impact on tourism and the economy, influenced heavily by the global media portrayal.

In 2021, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the initial eruptions had little effect on tourism due to existing travel restrictions. However, as travel resumed in 2022 and 2023, the Reykjanes eruptions emerged as a significant tourist attraction. The eruption sites drew thousands of visitors from around the globe, boosting Iceland's post-pandemic economic recovery.

The situation shifted in late 2023 and 2024 when eruptions threatened infrastructure, notably the town of Grindavík and the visitors' beloved Blue Lagoon. International media coverage, often exaggerated, heightened perceptions of risk, leading to an uptick in travel cancellations. Despite no disruptions to air traffic or any impact on tour operations whatsoever, this media-driven perception adversely affected our tourism industry.

The Reykjanes eruptions, aside from impacting the residents of Grindavík, have had little effect on Iceland's tourism or on local’s lives in general. The nearby Blue Lagoon has been taking brief closures intermittently as a precautionary measure, but apart from these temporary shutdowns, the spa has remained largely unaffected.

The most notable disruption caused by the eruptions was a temporary warm water shortage in the Reykjanes area following the February eruption. This occurred when the flowing lava overran water pipes, cutting off the supply. Remarkably, the response to this infrastructure damage was swift and efficient. New pipes were installed at an astonishingly fast pace and completed ahead of schedule within three days. This rapid response led to jokes that the world's best plumbers must be working in Iceland, highlighting the resilience and resourcefulness of the local services.

Some tremors have been felt in the capital, but these have been mild, only causing minor movements like shaking plants in apartments. Reykjavík and the international airport have remained unaffected by these volcanic events.

During active eruptions, gas pollution poses a concern in the immediate area of the eruption site. The range of gases released, including sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and other volcanic gases, can be harmful, particularly for people with respiratory issues or sensitivity to air quality.

However, Reykjanes peninsula, being largely uninhabited and known for its windy conditions, assists in swiftly dispersing these volcanic gases and minimising their concentration in the air. This means that although volcanic gases are highly concentrated at the eruption site, the smoke dissipates rapidly, posing no issues just a few kilometres away.

Occasionally, wind patterns shift and direct the gas pollution towards populated areas, including Reykjavík. In such instances, residents, especially those suffering from respiratory sensitivities, might experience discomfort. Real-time pollution maps are available to keep both residents and visitors informed about air quality.

Volcanologists suggest that the current phase of increased volcanic activity in Iceland could continue for an extended period, possibly lasting many years or even decades. Tourism in Iceland has remained steady, with some visitors on flights experiencing the remarkable sight of eruptions from their airplane windows. The allure of witnessing volcanic eruptions first-hand has led to the rise of 'volcano tourism', drawing numerous visitors to Iceland.

However, the 2024 eruptions have created a different context compared to those between 2021 and 2023. Earlier eruptions allowed for the quick establishment of official hiking routes to the sites, facilitating managed and safe viewing experiences. The recent eruptions, in contrast, have had an impact on local infrastructure and affected the lives of about 4,000 residents. Consequently, there has been a call from the local community for visitors to be mindful and considerate in their approach to these events.

The unpredictable nature of the most recent volcanic activities, characterised by ground fissures and eruptions with little warning, has led authorities to restrict access to the eruption sites, prioritising public safety in light of the potential risks. Authorities are urging the public to adhere to all safety measures and respect closures. This respectful cooperation is crucial for public safety and supports the authorities in managing the situation effectively.

Nonetheless, safe viewing opportunities still exist at a distance. When an eruption takes place, spots like Perlan and Sky Lagoon offer vantage points for observing the new eruptions.

From the view of locals and travellers, the volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula is expected to present a pattern of intermittent eruptions varying in duration. This activity weaves into the fabric of life here.

Eruptions may light up the horizon for a day or gently flow for months. Although accompanied occasionally by moderate seismic tremors, the area remains free from the threat of major earthquakes. This geological setting, where the earth's plates slowly drift apart, ensures a calmer seismic temperament compared to regions marked by converging tectonic forces.

Reflecting on the last three years, which have witnessed eight volcanic eruptions, it's noteworthy how life in Iceland, particularly in tourism and daily activities, has remained largely undisturbed.

Even the bustling city of Reykjavík and beloved tourist routes like the South Coast, Golden Circle, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula continue to thrive, unaffected by these natural events. The occasional closure of attractions like the Blue Lagoon has been but a minor hiccup.

Travellers are thus welcomed with open arms to Iceland, a land where nature's drama unfolds in the backdrop.