Iceland: Volcanic activity decreasing in the Reykjanes Peninsula as of Jan. 16 /update 2

Eruptive volcanic activity is decreasing on the Reykjanes Peninsula as of Jan. 16. The Icelandic Meteorological Office has reported that lava flows from the eruptive fissures that opened early Jan. 14 are decreasing. Seismic activity has also subsided. Volcanologists have not been able to determine how long the eruptive episode may last and new fissures may open up over the coming days. The eruption began at 07:57 Jan. 14, with a fissure opening southeast of Hagafell mountain; the southernmost part of the fissure was located approximately 900 meters from the town of Grindavik. Prior to the eruption, officials reported over 200 earthquakes associated with the volcanic activity since 03:00 Jan. 14, with the largest reaching magnitude 3.5. A second fissure later opened right on the northern outskirts of Grindavik and lava from this fissure has destroyed at least three houses. Lava flows from this second fissure appear to have ceased as of early Jan. 16.

In light of the eruptive activity, authorities had ordered that residents of Grindavik evacuate; the order will likely remain in place until at least Feb. 4. Grindavik is located around 40 km (25 miles) southwest of Reykjavik. The majority of the town's 4,000 residents had been evacuated in mid-November due to increased volcanic activity in the area; however, around 100 residents had returned before the latest eruption. All roads to and from Grindavik and several other areas in the vicinity of the volcano remain closed. The Blue Lagoon Hotel and Spa has closed through at least Jan. 17 due to the recent volcanic activity. As of Jan. 16, flights are operational at Keflavik International Airport (KEF).

Officials may expand evacuation orders and road closures at short notice. Further volcanic activity is possible in the coming days. Ongoing eruptive activity at the volcano could prompt transport disruptions in the surrounding area. Lava flows could block highways and damage structures. Ashfall may reduce visibility and cause hazardous driving conditions and could pose an increased threat to air traffic; flight disruptions are possible at KEF if sustained eruptive activity continues and winds direct volcanic material in the general direction of the airport.