Met Office Warns of Possible Eruption in Reykjanes Next Week

Possible Eruption Alert for Reykjanes: Met Office Advises Caution in Grindavík due to Imminent Magma Buildup

The Icelandic Meteorological Office issues a warning as magma accumulation beneath Svartsengi on the Reykjanes Peninsula indicates a potential eruption next week. Specialists, including geophysicist Benedikt Ófeigsson, anticipate an eruption based on the observed buildup, reminiscent of previous volcanic events in the region.

With an estimated 6 million cubic meters of magma already accumulated beneath Svartsengi, the volume is expected to reach 8 million cubic meters shortly after the weekend. Historical data suggests that eruptions typically occur when the volume ranges between 8-13 million cubic meters.

While the Meteorological Office does not currently raise the threat level, an update is scheduled for Monday. However, the possibility of an increased threat level in multiple areas is anticipated as magma accumulation continues.

Natural hazards specialist Kristín Jónsdóttir emphasizes the high likelihood of an eruption in the coming week, posing considerable risk to the Grindavík area. Concerns arise as authorities recently permitted residents to stay overnight and businesses to operate, adding pressure to monitoring efforts.

Kristín highlights the uncertainty surrounding the eruption’s precise location, citing the magma conduit’s length that extends beneath Grindavík. Warning times have notably shortened in recent events, with the current forecast indicating a potential warning period as brief as half an hour.

Acknowledging the significant danger, Kristín advises against overnight stays in Grindavík and stresses the difference in risk perception between daytime and nighttime activities in the town. The Meteorological Office urges vigilance and anticipates providing further updates as the situation unfolds.”