Iceland experiences seventh volcanic eruption in a year near Grindavíkur

A volcano erupted late Wednesday night in southern Iceland, near Grindavíkur, marking the seventh eruption in the region within a year. Lava flowed toward the Blue Lagoon, prompting evacuations of tourists and residents from about 50 homes. The eruption originated from a crack in the ground, with magma spreading over approximately 7 square kilometers. While the lava crossed a road into Grindavíkur, officials reported that the eruption's intensity had decreased compared to previous events. Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula has experienced increased volcanic activity since December 2023, following a long period of dormancy. The latest eruption is less severe than the one in August, which caused significant ground fissures and a 4.1-magnitude earthquake.