What's happened
On August 22, 2024, a volcano on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula erupted for the sixth time since December, producing a fissure approximately 3.9 km long. Authorities evacuated nearby areas, including Grindavik, but flights remain unaffected. The region has seen nine eruptions since 2021, following 800 years of dormancy.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, the latest eruption on August 22 was the sixth since December, with authorities stating that the impact is localized and does not threaten life. The Icelandic Meteorological Office confirmed that the fissure extended approximately 3.9 km within 40 minutes. Meanwhile, the New York Times highlighted the ongoing geological activity, noting that the Reykjanes Peninsula has seen nine eruptions since 2021, marking a significant change after 800 years of dormancy. The Guardian reported that the local police chief confirmed the successful evacuation of Grindavik, emphasizing that the lava flow is not currently threatening the town. This contrasts with earlier eruptions that posed direct risks to residents.
How we got here
The Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced a resurgence of volcanic activity since 2021, with nine eruptions recorded. This follows a period of dormancy lasting 800 years, prompting scientists to study the geological changes and potential future eruptions in the area.
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Iceland is a Nordic island country in the North Atlantic, with a population of 364,134 and an area of 103,000 km², making it the most sparsely populated country in Europe. The capital and largest city is Reykjavík.