Icelandic village evacuated after volcanic eruption near Grindavik

A volcanic eruption near the fishing village of Grindavik in southwest Iceland prompted authorities to evacuate residents on Tuesday, marking the region's eighth eruption since late 2023.

According to the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO), the eruption began on the Sundhnuksgigar Crater Row, located north of Grindavik. Live footage captured streams of lava emerging from a fissure in the ground.

The IMO confirmed that a helicopter would be deployed to determine the eruption's precise location and scale. Officials had earlier cautioned that an eruption was likely due to an "earthquake swarm" detected in the morning, mirroring previous eruption patterns.

Measurements from energy company HS Orka indicated ground deformation and pressure changes in boreholes—both signs of magma intrusion, according to the IMO.

Evacuation efforts began promptly, as reported by local broadcaster RUV. While most of Grindavik’s 4,000 residents had already relocated following earlier eruptions in late 2023, around 40 houses remained occupied. Authorities are now ensuring the safety of those who chose to stay.

The area has experienced heightened volcanic activity since March 2021, following eight centuries of dormancy. Experts believe the region has entered a new era of increased volcanic events.

Iceland, situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, is highly geologically active. Home to 33 active volcanic systems, the nation sees frequent earthquakes and eruptions due to this unique geological positioning.