A volcanic eruption in the Reykjanes peninsula of Iceland has led to the evacuation of the town of Grindavik as lava flows threaten residential areas. Two volcanic fissures opened, causing houses to catch fire after barriers built following a December eruption were partially breached.
The eruption was described as the "worst-case scenario" by experts. President Gudni Johannesson addressed the nation, urging unity and compassion. Some defensive structures, erected after the previous eruption, were unable to contain the lava flow.
Despite disruptions in Grindavik, there were no indications of disruptions to flights at Keflavik Airport, and the aviation color code for the Reykjanes peninsula suggested "no or minor ash emission."
The ongoing situation is deemed perilous, with concerns about potential respiratory issues from volcanic gases like sulphur dioxide. Icelandic authorities raised the alert level to "emergency," indicating a significant threat to people, communities, property, or the environment. Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir assured that the government would discuss housing measures for evacuated residents.
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