Iceland Volcano Erupts for 7th Time Since December

Residents urged caution as volcanic gas spreads in Grindavik area
By Newser.AI Read our AI policy
Posted Nov 21, 2024 1:45 AM CST
Iceland Volcano Erupts for 7th Time Since December
This photograph provided by Civil Protection in Iceland shows a new volcanic eruption that started on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland, Wednesday, Nov.20, 2024.   (Civil Protection in Iceland via AP)

A volcano has erupted on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland, spewing lava from a fissure late Wednesday. This marks its seventh eruption since December. The fissure, approximately 1.8 miles long, opened at 11:14pm, and while significant, it remains smaller compared to the last eruption in August, according to Iceland's meteorological office.

Despite the dramatic display, there is no current risk to aviation. However, authorities have issued warnings about potential gas hazards in parts of the peninsula—including the nearby town of Grindavik. This community, home to roughly 3,800 residents, has already faced disruptions due to recent volcanic activity, with damage to infrastructure and forced relocations for some residents.

However, officials report that Grindavik is not under threat from this latest eruption. Residents have been on high alert since the eruptions began, but with the area accustomed to such geological events, contingency plans are in place to ensure public safety. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)

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