Volcanologist: "I expected a more powerful eruption at the start"

A volcanic eruption broke out just north of the Grindavík defense wall at 10:00 AM this morning, following an intense earthquake swarm in the area. While the eruption was anticipated, its initial strength has come as a slight surprise to experts.

“This sequence of events, which began this morning and led to an eruption, was not unexpected,” says volcanologist Þorvaldur Þórðarson in an interview with mbl.is . “However, at the moment, this appears to be a very small eruption.”

The eruption fissure is gradually expanding northward, with lava flowing westward toward Mt. Þorbjörn. “The magma jet activity is relatively weak,” Þórðarson explains.

Eighth eruption since December 2023

Þórðarson compares this event to the January 2024 eruption, which was also short-lived and relatively mild. This marks the eighth eruption at the Sundhnúkagígar crater row since volcanic activity resumed in December 2023.

"Mother Nature is in control"

While the eruption's initial intensity is lower than expected, Þórðarson warns that the situation remains fluid.

“I had anticipated a more powerful eruption at the start, but this is how Mother Nature works—she is in control, and it’s her show. However, this could change at any moment.”

He emphasizes that there is no shortage of magma, noting that the magma chamber pressure is likely at its highest recorded level.

Fissure continues to expand

According to a statement from the Icelandic Meteorological Office, the eruption fissure has now extended to approximately 500 meters and has breached the dike north of Grindavík. The fissure is continuing to grow, and authorities caution that further expansion toward the south cannot be ruled out.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and urge residents to stay informed about further developments.