Grímsey still shaking: Third major quake hits island

An earthquake measuring between 4.3 and 4.4 struck near Grímsey shortly before midnight, according to a natural hazard expert at the Icelandic Meteorological Office. While the quake had not yet been formally reviewed at the time of reporting, it was likely felt by residents both on Grímsey and in nearby settlements across Northeast Iceland.

This is the third significant earthquake—each measuring well over magnitude 4—since the current seismic swarm began on Tuesday night.

Series of strong quakes

Grímsey, located on the Tjörnes Fracture Zone, is no stranger to seismic activity. Earthquakes of magnitude over 6 have been recorded in the region in the past. The current activity is concentrated just east of the island, with a dense cluster clearly visible on the Meteorological Office’s seismic map.

Aftershocks have continued in the wake of last night’s event, adding to the growing tension among locals.

Residents alert and uneasy

Following Wednesday morning’s powerful quake, residents of Grímsey told mbl.is they were startled by the ongoing seismic activity. Many were awakened in the night, shaken—both literally and figuratively—by the tremors.

“I feel all earthquakes. This one felt like the devil’s terror,” said Gylfi Gunnarsson, a local, describing the intensity of the experience.

As the earthquake swarm continues, experts are closely monitoring the area for signs of further seismic or volcanic developments.