For about half a year – until September 2021 – the volcano Fagradalsfjall in Iceland spewed lava and ash last year. Now it’s active again – glowing rock has been pouring out of a 300-meter-long gorge since Wednesday. According to current knowledge, there is no greater danger to humans and the environment.
A series of small earthquakes and underground magma movements had already heralded the eruption. Footage showed glowing red lava gushing from a long gorge in the ground. As the Icelandic Weather Agency announced in the evening, scientists have created a first model in preparation for a risk assessment to predict the possible path of the lava flows. It was too early for precise predictions. Nevertheless, the model shows that important infrastructure is unlikely to be endangered by the outbreak, the authority said.
The duration of the outbreak is still completely unclear
It is still unclear how long the outbreak will last this time. A previous eruption of the Reykjanes Peninsula’s subterranean volcanic system last year lasted from mid-March to September before being declared official in December after a three-month shutdown. It is believed to be the longest eruption ever recorded in Iceland.
Although the area is only about 30 kilometers from Reykjavik, there was no danger to people or the surrounding areas at the time. This time it seems similar: Iceland’s foreign ministry wrote on Twitter that the risk to populated areas and vital infrastructure is considered very low. There have also been no problems for air traffic, such as the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in 2010.
Lava flow attraction for volcanologists and spectators
If the lava flow continues and the situation remains spectacular but harmless, the eruption site could become a magnet for volcanologists, hikers and travelers, just like last year. At the time, countless people made a pilgrimage to the area to experience the natural spectacle.
The weather authority initially advised not to approach the area due to the gas development on Wednesday evening – and Iceland’s chief police officer, Vídir Reynisson, also asked interested parties to wait a little longer before heading to the lava.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
