What's happened
On July 16, 2025, a volcanic eruption began on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula, marking the 12th eruption since 2021. The fissure, about 700 to 1,000 meters long, emitted lava flowing southeast without threatening infrastructure. The fishing town of Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon spa were evacuated due to toxic gas. Despite the activity, Keflavík International Airport remains open with no flight disruptions.
What's behind the headline?
Persistent Volcanic Activity Signals Long-Term Geological Shift
The Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic resurgence since 2021 marks a significant geological phase, ending centuries of dormancy. The frequency—12 eruptions in four years—indicates a sustained period of tectonic and magmatic activity likely to continue for decades or even centuries.
Impact on Local Communities and Tourism
Repeated evacuations, especially of Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon, highlight the human and economic toll. While infrastructure remains largely unharmed, the persistent threat disrupts daily life and tourism, a vital sector for Iceland's economy. The evacuation protocols, executed smoothly, reflect effective disaster preparedness but also underscore ongoing vulnerability.
Aviation and Broader Implications
Unlike the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, current activity has not disrupted air traffic, a relief for international connectivity. However, the presence of sulfur dioxide clouds poses health risks locally and requires continuous monitoring.
Forecast and Consequences
Given the pattern of fissure eruptions and seismic swarms, Iceland faces a prolonged era of volcanic activity. This will necessitate sustained investment in monitoring, emergency response, and community resilience. The evolving volcanic landscape also offers scientific opportunities to study fissure eruptions and their environmental impacts.
Relevance to Global Audiences
While geographically remote, the Reykjanes eruptions serve as a reminder of Earth's dynamic geology and the challenges of living in volcanic regions. The story underscores the balance between natural hazards and human adaptation, with lessons applicable worldwide.
What the papers say
The Guardian's coverage on July 16, 2025, detailed the eruption's onset and evacuation measures, noting the fissure's length and lava flow direction, emphasizing that no infrastructure was threatened. Police commissioner Margrét Kristín Pálsdóttir described the evacuation of about 100 people from Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon as smooth, highlighting community safety priorities. The Independent provided a comprehensive timeline of the 12 eruptions since 2021, underscoring the region's reactivation after centuries of silence and the ongoing risks from toxic gases and lava flows. Bloomberg and AP News echoed these points, focusing on the eruption's scale and the unaffected status of Keflavík International Airport. Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post added context on the nature of fissure eruptions and the potential for decades-long activity, noting the absence of major ash clouds that previously disrupted European airspace in 2010. Together, these sources paint a consistent picture of a region undergoing significant volcanic activity with managed risks but ongoing challenges for residents and visitors alike.
How we got here
The Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland reawakened geologically in 2021 after nearly 800 years of dormancy. Since then, a series of fissure eruptions have occurred, characterized by lava flows from long cracks rather than central craters. The region, home to towns like Grindavík and tourist sites such as the Blue Lagoon, has faced repeated evacuations due to volcanic activity and associated hazards.
Go deeper
- How long is the volcanic activity expected to continue on the Reykjanes Peninsula?
- What safety measures are in place for residents near the eruptions?
- How is the volcanic activity affecting tourism in Iceland?
Common question
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Why is Iceland erupting again and is it dangerous?
Iceland has experienced a series of volcanic eruptions since 2021, with recent activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Many wonder why eruptions are happening now, how risky they are, and what impact they might have. Below, we answer common questions about Iceland's ongoing volcanic activity and what it means for nearby communities and travelers.
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How Are Natural Disasters and Political Crises Shaping Today’s Headlines?
From volcanic eruptions in Iceland to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, today’s news is filled with stories of natural disasters and political crises. These events not only impact local communities but also have far-reaching effects on global stability, climate, and geopolitics. Curious about how these crises unfold and what they mean for the world? Below, we explore key questions about recent natural disasters and political conflicts making headlines today.
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Is Iceland's Reykjanes Volcano Dangerous Now?
Recent volcanic activity on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula has raised questions about safety and travel plans. With eruptions ongoing since 2021, many wonder if the current eruption poses a threat to residents, tourists, or nearby infrastructure. In this guide, we’ll explore the latest updates on the eruption, safety measures, and what it means for visitors to the region today.
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How Are Natural Disasters and Conflicts Shaping Today’s News?
Recent events around the world highlight how natural disasters and conflicts are influencing global headlines. From volcanic eruptions in Iceland to ongoing wars in the Middle East, these crises impact millions and shape international responses. Curious about the latest natural disasters, how conflicts affect stability, and what safety measures are in place? Keep reading to find out more about these pressing issues and their broader implications.
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How Are Current Global Events Connected?
Today’s news is a web of interconnected stories, from natural disasters and conflicts to technological advances. Understanding how these events influence each other can help us see the bigger picture of global stability and change. Below, we explore key questions about the links between these major happenings and what they mean for our world.
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Why is Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula erupting again?
The Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland has experienced a new eruption in July 2025, marking a significant event after nearly 800 years of dormancy. This ongoing volcanic activity raises questions about what’s causing the eruptions, how dangerous they are, and what impacts they might have on nearby communities and travelers. Below, we explore the reasons behind the recent eruption, its risks, and what it means for the region and beyond.
More on these topics
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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.
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Blue Lagoon may refer to: