Scientists have already examined the liquid rock that swells from the volcanic fissure. They cannot predict what will happen. But they are prepared for years of activity.
After many earthquakes, a volcanic eruption began on August 3 on the Reykjanes Peninsula near Reykjavik (photo taken on August 5, 2022).
The earth had been shaking for days. Then, on August 3, lava began to flow again on the Reykjanes Peninsula in south-west Iceland. The eruption occurred just a few hundred meters away from the cone-shaped hills left by last year’s eruption.
The new lava flows immediately attracted crowds of tourists. The capital Reykjavik is only about 40 kilometers away as the crow flies. But scientists also immediately began to devote themselves to the eruption. Researchers from the University of Iceland analyzed the chemical composition of the liquid rock. Accordingly, it is very similar to the material that the earth spat out of a fissure in the Fagradalsfjall volcanic system in 2021.
Back then, on March 19, 2021, the region had awakened from a 781-year sleep – that is how long there had been no volcanic activity there. The escaping lava is very thin and there is no water or glacial ice in the area. In contrast to other Icelandic eruptions in recent years, these circumstances prevent explosive eruption phases from occurring. Therefore, it is not to be expected that international air traffic will be disrupted, even though Keflavik Airport is only 20 kilometers away.
The scientists cannot make predictions
Since there is no sensitive infrastructure in the area, only the emitted gases currently pose a risk. Especially the sulfur dioxide, which can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract. Of the weather service and the Environment Agency of Iceland are constantly reporting on the spread of volcanic gases.
Tourists in particular have to be careful of the sulfur dioxide flags. You are also advised not to bring dogs, as they are particularly sensitive to the substance.
The scientists cannot precisely predict how long the lava will swell out of the ground. Things are no different than last year, however, when a total of 151 million cubic meters of lava surfaced. That wasn’t record-breaking, but the duration was: It took six months for the magmatic replenishment from the mantle to dry up on September 18, 2021, making the eruption the longest of the 21st century.
The volcanic activity could last for a long time
According to the University of Iceland, the new eruption produced 1.6 million cubic meters of lava in the first two days alone. While activity is not continuing with the same vehemence with which it began, this is typical of Icelandic eruptions. And it doesn’t mean it’s going to end anytime soon.
The eruption could last for months, similar to 2021, according to Sara Barsotti, the volcanic risk coordinator at the Icelandic Weather Service. Activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula may continue for much longer. It is quite possible that a series of new outbreaks have begun there. It could drag on for years.