The volcanic eruption in Iceland, which commenced at 12:46 PM local time, was heralded by the formation of a fissure vent that rapidly extended to a length of approximately 3 kilometers. This fissure bisected the pre-existing volcanic cone formed during the previous eruption in the region.
A prominent characteristic of the ongoing eruption is the spectacular lava fountaining activity, with molten rock and incandescent fragments being ejected to altitudes exceeding 100 meters. These impressive displays are accompanied by the effusion of lava flows, which initially exhibited high effusion rates but have since diminished, following a pattern consistent with previous eruptions in this volcanically active area.
The eruption has also generated ash plumes, composed of fine-grained volcanic particles and gases. The interaction of ascending magma with groundwater is likely the primary mechanism responsible for the formation of these plumes.
Extensive lava flows originating from the fissure vent are advancing southward and have already breached the Grindavíkurvegur road, a critical transportation artery south of Mt. Þorbjörn. The interaction of these lava flows with infrastructure, including roads, power lines, and communication networks, is being closely monitored by authorities and scientists. Despite the southward progression of the lava, the defensive barriers constructed around the town of Grindavik have successfully withstood the lava’s advance thus far, providing a crucial safeguard for the community.