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8h ago

Sundhnúkur Volcano Unleashes 2.4 km Fissure in 12th Reykjanes Eruption, Triggers Precautionary Evacuations

Authorities warned of rising sulfur dioxide levels, urging residents to shelter indoors.

© Civil Protection Department of the National Police Commissioner
Handout picture released on July 16, 2025 by the Public Defense Department of the State Police Commissioner in Iceland shows lava and smoke erupting from a volcano near Grindavik on the Icelandic peninsula of Reykjanes. A volcano erupted on Wednesday in Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula in the southwest, weather authorities said, the ninth eruption to hit the region since the end of 2023. Broadcaster RUV reported that the nearby fishing village Grindavik had been evacuated, as had the Blue Lagoon, Iceland's famed tourist spot.
Iceland Volcano Eruption

Overview

  • An intense seismic swarm at 1:20 a.m. signaled magma intrusion and prompted the swift evacuation of Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon resort.
  • Satellite data show the main fissure has extended about 2.4 km, with lava flowing southeast away from roads and buildings.
  • High sulfur dioxide concentrations led officials to advise residents in Reykjanesbær and Vogar to keep windows closed and turn off ventilation.
  • Keflavik International Airport remained fully operational with no flight delays or airspace restrictions despite the gas plume.
  • As the 12th eruption since 2021, this event underscores ongoing investments in monitoring, lava diversion barriers and property acquisitions to manage persistent volcanic risk.