Iceland Takes Emergency Measures Due to Volcano Eruption Threat at Fagradalsfjall

Iceland has declared a state of emergency due to a series of earthquakes that have raised concerns about a potential volcanic eruption. As a precautionary measure, authorities have ordered thousands of residents in the town of Grindavík to evacuate. The Icelandic Met Office (IMO) has expressed worries that a large amount of magma is spreading underground and could reach the surface in that area. Numerous tremors have been recorded around the Fagradalsfjall volcano, located on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula, in recent weeks. Prior to an eruption in 2021, this peninsula had been dormant for 800 years. The increased seismic activity in the region resulted in the closure of the nearby Blue Lagoon landmark on Thursday. Since late October, more than 20,000 tremors have been reported in southwest Iceland. The decision to evacuate Grindavík was made by Iceland's Civil Protection Agency after the IMO could not rule out the possibility of a "magma tunnel that is currently forming could reach Grindavík". However, the agency stressed that this was not an "emergency evacuation" and urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that there was sufficient time to respond. All roads into the town, which is home to approximately 4,000 people, are closed except for emergencies to ensure smooth traffic flow. The IMO stated that significant changes have occurred in the seismic activity, with tremors moving towards Grindavík throughout the day. They also believe that magma has likely extended beneath the town, although they cannot determine exactly if or where it might emerge. Iceland is known for being one of the most geographically active regions in the world, with approximately 30 active volcanic sites. Volcanic eruptions happen when lighter magma rises from deep within the earth to the surface. In July, the Fagradalsfjall area experienced an eruption known as Litli-Hrútur or Little Ram, attracting tourists to witness the "world's newest baby volcano". This site had been dormant for eight centuries until eruptions occurred in 2021, 2022, and 2023.