5.3-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Reykjanestá

Two significant earthquakes were recorded near Reykjanestá shortly before 5 p.m. today, with the largest measuring 5.3 in magnitude, according to Jóhanna Malen Skúladóttir, a natural hazard specialist at the Icelandic Meteorological Office. The magnitude of the smaller tremor is still being assessed.

Widespread shaking felt across the country

The earthquakes were strongly felt throughout southwest Iceland, with reports flooding in from Akranes, Hveragerði, Hella, and Vík, underscoring the force of the tremors.

“These were likely trigger earthquakes, caused by voltage changes in the Earth's crust due to the intense seismic activity in the region,” Skúladóttir explained.

No sign of tremors easing

Seismic activity has been relentless since 6 a.m., following a magma intrusion beneath the Sundhnúkagígar crater row.

“A magma tunnel is still forming, extending northeast from the Sundhnúkar area,” Skúladóttir added.

With ongoing earthquakes and ground deformation, scientists continue to closely monitor the situation, as further seismic activity remains highly likely.