The eruption in Grindavik

Early this morning, a volcanic eruption started just outside the little fishing town of Grindavik. The town is situated on the southern coast of the Reykjanes peninsula. Keflavik International Airport is on the north-west corner of the Reykjanes peninsula and is some 27 Kilometers (I7 miles). Reykjavik is some 50 Kilometers away from Grindavík.  There is no danger to anyone outside the volcano’s immediate vicinity.

Tragically, a crevice opened up some 100 meters (some 330 to 500 feet) from the edge of town. As things stand now, on the afternoon of the 14th of January 2024, two houses are being consumed by the relentless lava flow. Other buildings are in great danger.

I wish thoughts and prayers could stop the lava flow. Unfortunately, that is not the case. This is just an awful situation. I feel for the people who have been so much already.

If you are worried about a flight to Iceland or your ability to travel around the country, consider that this is a localized event that will not affect air travel or your ability to get around.

IMPORTANT: Stay well clear of the eruption; first responders have their hands full with the current situation. Searching for people who brave the extremely rough terrain and cut through with deep crevices from the recent seismic activity, bad weather, poisonous gases, and running lava is something they cannot deal with right now.

Resources to follow

• Live broadcast and news from the Icelandic National Broadcasting Services 
• Information for the residents of Grindavík
• The Icelandic Civil Defence on Facebook – with live updates