Southwestern Iceland volcano erupts, prompting evacuation of town, geothermal spa

Updated : Jul 16, 2025 14:04
|
Editorji News Desk

A volcanic eruption in southwestern Iceland has once again forced the evacuation of local residents and the internationally known Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, the national broadcaster RUV reported.

The eruption began around 4 a.m. following an intense seismic swarm on the Reykjanes Peninsula, southwest of the capital, Reykjavik, Iceland's Met Office said.

The town of Grindavik was evacuated shortly after the seismic activity began, with campers and guests at the Blue Lagoon forced to quickly pack their bags, RUV reported.

Lava from the eruption is flowing southeast from a fissure in the barren landscape that is 700 to 1,000 metres (2,296 to 3,280 feet) wide, but the molten rock isn't threatening any infrastructure, the Met Office said.

Grindavik has been evacuated repeatedly since November 2023 when a volcano in the area came to life after lying dormant for some 800 years. 

IcelandVolcano

Recommended For You

editorji | World

Israel vows to fight on as Iran warns ceasefire talks at risk

editorji | World

Trump says 'no enrichment' of uranium in Iran

editorji | World

Pakistan to host US-Iran ceasefire talks on Friday

editorji | World

Iran hits Gulf states after agreeing 'fragile' truce with US

editorji | World

Trump warns 'whole civilization will die' in Iran if ultimatum expires