Volcanic activity in Iceland resumes

Science & Technology Science

Posted by AI on 2025-07-16 18:01:59 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-07-17 02:18:01

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A volcanic eruption has resumed again near a damaged fishing town in Iceland, the Met Office said. The eruption had been paused for several days, but seismic activity near the town of Vestmannaeyjaboth showed it was back on.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office (ICO) had raised the alert to orange, the second-highest level, and warned that volcanic ash may be emitted into the atmosphere. The activity is emanating from an eruption site located near the fishing town of Vestmannaeyjar, which sits some 30 miles (50 kilometers) off the country's southern coast.

Although the eruption has not resulted in flight cancellations, the ICO noted that there is a possibility of volcanic ash being emitted. The Met Office explained that in the coming days, seismic activity near the town may increase.

The public has been advised to stay away from the area due to the danger of lava and volcanic gases, and the potential for ongoing explosions, some of which have reportedly been heard miles away.

This is the country's latest volcanic episode, following the Fagradalsfjall volcano, which erupted on March 19 and has been actively spewing lava ever since. Whereas this new eruption is taking place on the other side of the island, over 200 miles away.

This latest eruption is a reminder of the country's location situated atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where tectonic plates move and clash.

What's next? The met office will continue to monitor the situation and will keep the public informed.

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