Iceland experienced a significant volcanic eruption near the capital, triggered by a swarm of earthquakes in the Reykjanes Peninsula. Evacuations were ordered for Grindavík and the famous Blue Lagoon hotel due to a 1,200-meter fissure releasing lava. Scientists identified the pre-eruption tremors using an app called Earthtunes, converting seismic data into ominous soundtracks. The eruption, marked by a magnitude 5.3 earthquake and increased fissure length, is the eighth since 2021, raising concerns about its size compared to previous eruptions.
According to the Iceland Meteorological Office (IMO), the swarm began around 6:30am local time. The IMO says these tremors were a 'clear sign of the onset of a magma intrusion' ahead of the eruption.
Yesterday's eruption was the eighth to hit the Reykjanes Peninsula since 2021, when the region entered its latest active period. Experts warned that this would be 'much larger' than previous events.
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