Volcanic Eruption Threatens Infrastructure in Iceland

On November 21, 2024, a volcanic eruption continues to unfold between the geographic features of Stóra-Skógfell and Sýlingarfell in Iceland. The event, which began on the evening of November 20, has been characterized by significant seismic and eruptive activity with notable impacts on local infrastructure. The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) has provided regular updates as the situation develops.

According to reports, seismic activity and ground deformation remain minimal at the site, following an initial surge at the eruption’s onset. Preliminary measurements indicate that the volume of magma travelling from Svartsengi towards the Sundhnúkur crater row is about half that of the prior eruption in August. The lava flow has progressed westward, surpassing previous records.

One of the significant infrastructure impacts reported involves the lava crossing Grindavíkurvegur road and a hot water pipeline, known as the Njarðvík Line, before reaching the Blue Lagoon parking lot. The rate of advancement was over 100 meters per hour earlier today. As of midday, the parking lot—a significant structure with a capacity for approximately 350 vehicles as well as buses—is completely inundated with lava, save for a few standing street lamps. This development poses a substantial challenge for local businesses and tourism operators, including the Blue Lagoon.

Helga Árnadóttir, manager of operations at the Blue Lagoon, expressed uncertainty about the full extent of the damage. «It is impossible to tell the damage at this point, but we will see this better as time goes on and how we can respond,» Árnadóttir stated in an interview with mbl.is. She indicated that alternative access routes for vehicles might be considered in the future.

Observations via the IMO webcam located on Þorbjörn have displayed the progression of the lava. The satellite imagery and radar data provide critical information for monitoring the ongoing eruptive activity. Previously, a high hazard level has been placed on several zones with Zone 3, the origin of the eruption, experiencing the highest alert.

Weather conditions, including strong winds from the north-east, are dispersing volcanic gas emissions across Grindavík, Svartsengi, and Reykjanesbær. The volcanic gas primarily consists of sulfur dioxide (SO2), presenting additional environmental challenges. The hazard assessment by IMO remains in effect and continues to guide response efforts.

The eruption presents a unique situation as it suggests changes in the patterns previously observed, with increasing volumes of magma required to trigger new events.