Iceland is getting ready for a possible volcanic activity. Over 3,000 people in the town of Grindavík have been asked to leave their homes as scientists, like those at Iceland’s Met Office, notice signs that magma, which is hot, melted rock inside the Earth, might be moving closer to the surface. The area where this could happen is about 3.5 kilometers away from Grindavík.
What Could Happen if the Volcano Erupts?
Something Rare for Iceland
This possible eruption is a unique event for Iceland’s 360,000 residents. It’s something they haven’t experienced since a big eruption in 1973 that happened suddenly and destroyed 400 homes. A long pathway with magma, about 15 kilometers long, stretches from northwest of Grindavík into the Atlantic Ocean, creating a situation that hasn’t happened before.
Magma and Explosions
Magma, which is very hot rock under the Earth, can cause an eruption when it reaches the surface, becoming lava. If this happens under the sea, it could be more explosive. But if it erupts on land, it might be a bigger danger to Grindavík.
What Might Occur
The eruption could lead to a special kind called a Surtseyan eruption if it happens under the water. This type, like the one in 1963 that created an island called Surtsey, can last for a long time, even several years. But there’s a chance that the magma won’t come out at all, which would be the best situation – it would just cool down and become solid without causing an eruption.
How It Affects Travel and Places
Worries for Grindavík People
The town of Grindavík is in a risky position, and it’s uncertain what might happen. The safety of the people who left their homes depends on where the magma comes out. The roads in the area are already damaged because of the earthquakes caused by the shaking.
Bad Smells and Leaving Homes
A famous place called the Blue Lagoon, known for its warm water, closed just to be safe. Bad-smelling fumes, especially sulfur dioxide, could be a problem, causing breathing issues and damage. The people from Grindavík left their homes after scientists said it’s possible the magma tunnel could reach the town.
Safety in Reykjavík and Travel Worries
Reykjavík is Safe
The big city of Reykjavík, about 70 kilometers away from Grindavík, hasn’t been told to leave, so it seems safe from the eruption. But the main airport in Iceland, Keflavík, is less than 20 miles from Grindavík.
Not Like Last Time
Experts don’t think this eruption will be as big of a problem for travel as the one in 2010 when a volcano called Eyjafjallajökull erupted. That time, it caused huge trouble because it had ice, and the ash cloud from it stopped many flights. This time, it’s expected to be less chaotic with lava fountains that won’t cause similar issues for planes.
In short, Iceland is watching closely, and there might be risks and leaving homes in Grindavík. Experts are checking how travel and nearby areas might be affected by this possible eruption.
