Volcano erupts in Iceland
Grindavik is located southwest of Reykjavik on the Reykjanes peninsula. There had been a series of earthquakes in the region in November, which is why a volcanic eruption was expected. The authorities declared a state of emergency and evacuated the town of Grindavik, which has a population of 4,000. Since then, residents have only been allowed to return to their homes at certain times.
According to the weather service, earthquakes were recorded again on Monday evening before the volcano erupted at 10.17 p.m. local time. Head of government Katrin Jakobsdottir said her thoughts were with the people of the area. "We hope for the best, but it is clear that this is a significant eruption."
A temporary red alert was issued for aviation, but this was then downgraded to orange. Airport operator Isavia stated on its website that there were currently no disruptions to take-offs and landings at Keflavik International Airport.
The current volcanic eruption is the fourth in Iceland in two years. With more than 30 active volcanic systems, Iceland is the largest and most active volcanic region in Europe. The island state lies on the so-called Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which separates the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.
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Source: www.stern.de
