Iceland: Volcanic eruption occurs in the Reykjanes Peninsula early Feb. 8 /update 1

A new volcanic eruption began in the Reykjanes Peninsula early Feb. 8. The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) has stated that following an increase in seismic activity northeast of Mt. Sylingarfell around 05:30 Feb. 8, a volcanic eruption began in the area around 06:00. An eruptive fissure has grown to around 3 km (2 miles) long between Mt. Sundhnukur in the south and Mt. Stora-Skogfell in the east, with lava flowing mostly to the west. The eruption location is similar to that of the previous eruption on Dec. 18 and to the northeast of the eruption that occurred outside Grindavik on Jan. 14.

The Blue Lagoon Hotel and Spa closed early Feb. 8 due to its proximity to the latest eruption; guests are reportedly being evacuated to other hotels. Due to previous eruptive activity, Grindavik's nearly 4,000 residents remain evacuated. All roads to and from Grindavik and several other areas in the vicinity of the area of recent volcanic activity remain closed.

Officials may expand evacuation orders and road closures at short notice due to the ongoing eruption. 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, causing hazardous driving conditions, and could also 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.