Authorities are particularly concerned about the potential for lava to breach a protective wall built north of Grindavík, which could alter the flow and threaten infrastructure.

A volcanic eruption began early on April 1, 2025, near Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland, prompting the evacuation of the popular tourist destination, the Blue Lagoon.

Despite a reduction in surface activity, underground seismic movements and magma deformation continue, suggesting the possibility of new fissures opening.

Volcanic gases are expected to be carried northeast towards Reykjavík, located approximately 25 miles from the eruption site, raising concerns about air quality.

In response to the eruption, the Icelandic Met Office raised the hazard alert level for Grindavík, which has a population of around 3,000, to the highest risk.

Shortly after the initial eruption, a new fissure opened, leading the Icelandic Civil Protection Agency to declare a state of emergency due to the proximity of lava flow to residential areas.

While no magma has yet reached the surface, the Icelandic Met Office warns that an eruption is likely to occur imminently, with an intense earthquake storm indicating heightened volcanic activity.

Forecasts indicate that shifting winds could affect the distribution of volcanic gases and ash around the peninsula, potentially reaching the capital region.

Significant geological movements have been reported in Grindavík, including a broken hot water pipeline, which underscores the ongoing risks associated with the eruption.

Experts predict that fissure eruptions, characterized by lava emerging from long cracks in the earth's crust, may continue for decades or even centuries in this geologically active region.

This eruption is part of a series of 11 eruptions that have occurred since 2021, following the reactivation of dormant geological systems after 800 years.

Iceland, situated over a volcanic hot spot, has a history of disruptive eruptions, including the notable 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption that significantly impacted air travel.