Icelandic skies have been ablaze once again as a volcanic eruption wreaks havoc near the town of Grindavík. Drone footage captures the ominous spectacle of molten lava engulfing homes, forcing the evacuation of local residents. The eruption, which began just before 8:00 a.m. local time on a Sunday, emanated from a fissure half a mile from Grindavík, triggered by a series of intense earthquakes.
A second fissure opened later, sending lava flows directly into the town. Iceland’s president, Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, addressed the nation, acknowledging a “daunting period of upheaval” for those on the Reykjanes peninsula. This marks the second eruption in a month near Grindavík, a coastal town situated approximately 25 miles from Reykjavík.
The government swiftly evacuated Grindavík, emphasizing that the eruption poses no immediate threat to other populated areas. Despite the destruction of at least three homes and the engulfment of others by lava, no disruptions to flights have been reported, and infrastructure threats are under continuous monitoring.
The eruption holds a somber note, as President Jóhannesson expressed sympathy for the family of Lúðvík Pétursson, who went missing in a work accident last week. Pétursson, involved in volcanic activity-related work, fell into a crack formed after the preceding eruption in December, underscoring the perilous challenges faced by those in the affected regions.
As Iceland navigates this dual eruption crisis, the nation braces for the unpredictable forces of nature, emphasizing hope for the best outcome amidst the ongoing upheaval.