Icelandic volcano's explosive activity ceases following a three-week period
Reykjanes Peninsula Experiences Twelfth Fissure Eruption Since March 2021
A volcanic eruption occurred southwest of Reykjavik, Iceland's capital, on the Reykjanes Peninsula. This is the twelfth fissure eruption in the region since March 2021, with the peninsula experiencing nine eruptions since late 2023.
The eruption, which began on July 16, 2021, did not pose a threat to people on the Reykjanes Peninsula. However, it is essential to maintain a safe distance from the lava field, as the weather office has warned that it is life-threatening to enter the newly formed lava.
The specific location of the eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula was not specified. In these eruptions, lava shoots out of elongated earth cracks instead of a typical volcanic peak. The eruption ended on a specific date, but the exact date is not provided.
Since December 2023, the peninsula has experienced increased volcanic activity, with several eruptive phases. As of 2025, there have been six eruptions reported, indicating persistent magmatic activity beneath the peninsula.
The Icelandic Meteorological Office has responded to ongoing activity by updating volcanic hazard maps and methodologies multiple times. This shows an expansion of hazard monitoring beyond previously defined zones to a broader area encompassing more volcanic systems on the peninsula.
In April 2025, a magma intrusion reached the northeastern part of the Svartsengi volcanic system, and a fissure eruption occurred west of the northernmost part of Fagradalsfjall. This indicates that volcanic activity is not limited to one localized zone but is spreading or activating multiple fissures across the peninsula.
Eruptions have caused evacuations, including from nearby tourist sites like the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, demonstrating the eruptions' significant local impact. The peninsula remains sparsely populated.
It is crucial to note that the surface crust of the newly formed lava can collapse without warning. Glowing lava may be directly beneath the surface of the newly formed lava. Despite the eruption being over, it is essential to maintain a safe distance from the lava field for everyone's safety.
- The volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula, including the recent fissure eruptions, has led to increased interest in environmental science, as researchers study the impacts of these events on the health-and-wellness of the region's inhabitants and the overall environment.
- As the Reykjanes Peninsula continues to experience volcanic activity, it is essential for the science community to collaborate in health-and-wellness research, ensuring the safety of local residents and the preservation of the region's unique ecosystem, an essential aspect of environmental science.
