Eruption Remains Likely Amidst Magma Build-up
A further volcanic eruption near the town of Grindavík, Iceland, remains highly likely, according to expert volcanologists and the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO). Magma continues to accumulate beneath the Svartsengi power plant, a critical geothermal facility, signaling an ongoing period of geological instability on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Volcanologist Þorvaldur Þórðarson has stated that another eruption along the Sundhnúkur crater row is probable. The IMO reported last week that approximately 14 million cubic meters of magma have built up beneath Svartsengi. This volume is significant, as previous eruptions in the area have released between 12 and 31 million cubic meters of magma. While the exact timing remains uncertain, Þórðarson suggested that more magma accumulation might be needed, potentially pushing the next event towards the end of the year.
Impact on Grindavík and Key Infrastructure
The town of Grindavík has been at the forefront of this volcanic activity, experiencing repeated evacuations and significant damage since late 2023. The National Police Commissioner of Iceland, in collaboration with local officials, has maintained a high civil protection alert level due to the imminent eruption risk, particularly for Grindavík. Lava flows from past eruptions have destroyed houses and created extensive fissures within the town.
The Svartsengi power plant and the renowned Blue Lagoon geothermal spa are also directly threatened by potential lava flows. Extensive protective barriers have been constructed and continuously raised around the power plant to safeguard it from lava. These barriers, initially planned at 6 to 8 meters, have been elevated to total heights ranging from 10 to 21 meters. The Blue Lagoon has been temporarily closed and evacuated multiple times due to seismic activity and eruption threats.
Ongoing Volcanic Pattern on Reykjanes Peninsula
The current unrest is part of a series of volcanic events on the Reykjanes Peninsula, known as the Sundhnúkur eruptions, which began in December 2023. Between December 2023 and August 2025, the region experienced nine eruptions. The most recent eruption concluded on August 5, 2025, after starting on July 16, 2025. This pattern of intermittent eruptions, preceded by magma accumulation and ground uplift, has characterized the area's geological activity.
Scientists continue to monitor the region closely, using GPS and satellite data to track land uplift and magma movements. While the capital city of Reykjavík and Keflavík International Airport have remained largely unaffected, the localized nature of these eruptions necessitates constant vigilance and preparedness for the communities and infrastructure on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
0 Comments