Iceland volcano eruption weakening

The volcanic eruption that occurred in southwest Iceland on Monday is showing signs of weakening, according to the country’s meteorological office. Although three vents are currently erupting, down from the initial five, the office warns that new vents could open suddenly. The eruption, on the Reykjanes peninsula, followed weeks of intense earthquakes and tremors, leading to the evacuation of about 4,000 people from the threatened fishing town of Grindavik. While there are no reported injuries, concerns about potential damage to houses persist.

The Icelandic Met Office stated on Tuesday evening that there is an increased likelihood of new vents opening along the original fracture or further north or south. The warning time for these new vent openings could be very short. Aerial images indicate a weakening of the eruption, and the office cautioned about the possibility of pollution reaching the capital, Reykjavik, located approximately 42 km (26 miles) from Grindavik.

A man required helicopter rescue on Tuesday night after getting lost near the eruption site, emphasizing the dangers of the area. Authorities have strongly advised people to stay away, emphasizing that it is not a tourist attraction. Although fears of air travel disruption emerged, a volcanologist noted that the current volcanoes in southwest Iceland are not likely to generate the same ash clouds as seen in the disruptive 2010 eruption.

Iceland’s foreign minister, Bjarni Benediktsson, assured on social media that there are no disruptions to flights to and from Iceland, and international flight corridors remain open. While the eruption is considered powerful, the situation is being closely monitored for any potential developments.