Iceland: Volcanic activity ongoing in the Reykjanes Peninsula as of Jan. 14 /update 1

Eruptive volcanic activity is ongoing on the Reykjanes Peninsula as of Jan. 14. The Icelandic Meteorological Office confirmed during the morning of Jan. 14 that an eruption had begun, with a fissure opening southeast of Hagafell mountain; the southernmost part of the fissure was located approximately 900 meters from the town of Grindavik. Latest reports indicate that a second fissure has opened and that lava has reached the town, setting multiple structures ablaze. 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. Several roads to and from Grindavik and other areas in the vicinity of the volcano remain closed.

Grindavik is located around 40 km (25 miles) southwest of Reykjavik. 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.

As of Jan. 14, flights are operational at Keflavik International Airport (KEF).

Officials may expand evacuation orders and road closures at short notice. Further volcanic activity is likely 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.