GRINDAVÍK, Iceland — A volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland erupted late Wednesday night, marking the seventh volcanic event in the region since December. The eruption began abruptly at 11:14 p.m., creating a fissure of approximately 3 kilometers long. According to the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO), the activity is considerably smaller in scale than the previous eruption that happened in August.
While the eruption poses no threat to air travel, authorities have cautioned against potential risks from gas emissions. These emissions may impact parts of the peninsula, including the nearby town of Grindavík, prompting warnings for residents and visitors to exercise caution.
Iceland is uniquely situated atop a volcanic hot spot in the North Atlantic, experiencing an average of one volcanic event every four to five years. The country’s most notable eruption in recent history occurred in 2010, when the Eyjafjallajökull volcano discharged massive ash clouds that disrupted trans-Atlantic air travel for several months.
In a statement, the IMO emphasized the nation's preparedness for such an event, he said "Iceland is no stranger to volcanic activity and experiences an average volcanic event every five years. Icelandic authorities and the public are highly prepared for such events, and Iceland has one of the world’s most effective volcanic preparedness measures. Iceland’s geoscientists possess vast experience in dealing with volcanic activities."
Travelers and locals have been urged to avoid the Grindavík area and to adhere to restrictions implemented for safety.