The Icelandic Meteorological Office has recently announced a heightened possibility of a new volcanic eruption near the village of Grindavik, as volcanic magma accumulates in a network of underground tunnels and caves.
According to the office, certain areas of the Reykjanes Peninsula, located southwest of the capital Reykjavik, have risen to levels similar to those observed before the previous eruption on December 18.
The Meteorological Office elaborated, stating, “As the accumulation of volcanic magma continues beneath Svartsengi, the likelihood of a new magma surge and eruption increases with each passing day.” This statement refers to the volcanic system currently under surveillance.
The office also noted that the seismic activity in the area has not reached the magnitude of what was experienced in November and early December.
This reduced activity is likely due to the release and relief of “intense pressure in the region,” where the pressure decreased following the previous eruption.
The last eruption, which lasted several days, was the fourth on the peninsula in three years. This ongoing geological activity highlights the dynamic and volatile nature of Iceland’s volcanic landscape, drawing attention from scientists and enthusiasts globally.
In December, Mount Marapi, a volcano located in western Indonesia on the island of Sumatra, erupted, releasing a towering column of ash that reached approximately three kilometers into the sky, as confirmed by officials.
Hendra Gunawan, the head of Indonesia’s Centre of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, reported that the ash emanating from Mount Marapi rose to an altitude of 3,000 meters (9,842 feet) above the volcano’s peak.
Despite the significant eruption, there have been no immediate reports of damage or casualties. The eruption occurred at 2:54 pm local time (0754 GMT).
Gunawan provided details in a statement, stating, “The column of ash was observed in grey color with thick intensity leaning toward the east.” Importantly, he noted that the eruption is still ongoing, indicating continued volcanic activity.
