Icelandic authorities declare state of emergency following volcanic eruption

The eruption started around 10 p.m. local time on Thursday, August 22, prompting authorities to evacuate the immediate area.

Images from the Iceland Coast Guard showed the fissure extending from south to north, with an estimated length of nearly a mile. Local police declared a state of emergency for the region, which has been largely deserted since late 2023 due to previous volcanic activity.

A nearby geothermal power plant and the popular tourist destination, the Blue Lagoon, were temporarily closed as a precautionary measure. The Blue Lagoon announced its closure on Friday, August 23, stating that the situation would be reassessed.

Despite the eruption, authorities believe that the lava's limited expansion in the initial hours will allow it to remain within defense walls designed to protect structures in the Reykjanes Peninsula.

This marks the sixth volcanic eruption in the region since late 2023. An earlier eruption this year damaged the main pipeline supplying hot water to homes and businesses in the area. (ILKHA)