Iceland Anticipates Volcanic Eruption In Grindavik After Area Hit With 120 Earthquakes

Approximately 120 earthquakes near Grindavik have signaled a potential eruption, with the Icelandic Met Office pinpointing the likely location of said natural disaster. Seismic activity has impacted Grindavik's port, sinking docks by 20-30 cm, but port manager Kristmundsson sees fixable prospects. 

Recent reports shift the anticipated eruption north of Grindavik, east of Svartsengi Power Station, leading to continued evacuation orders but relaxed regulations.

According to the Icelandic Met Office, approximately 120 earthquakes have occurred in the vicinity of Grindavik as anticipation grows for an "imminent" eruption, despite previous reports of the likelihood being decreased. 

Per The Independent, the exact eruption location, identified by the Met Office, remains a distinct possibility based on ongoing uplift in the Svartsengi area, north of Grindavík.

By analyzing GPS and satellite data, experts have highlighted that the "eruption is still considered likely as the magma inflow continues," emphasizing that "the highest likelihood for an eruption is in the middle part of the dike between Hagafell and Sylingarfell."

As reported by local media outlet RUV (via The Independent), Seismic activity has influenced the deepening of Grindavik's port. Port manager Sigurður Arnar Kristmundsson attributed the change in depth to the impact of earthquakes.

He shared: "The docks seem to have sunk by 20-30 centimeters when we measured about 10 days ago and then there is a chance that, yes, the bottom has sunk."

While acknowledging this occurrence, Kristmundsson expressed optimism, stating, "It's no big news that the piers have sunk, but it can probably be fixed. But it's good news that the bottom has subsided to the extent that the ships can have a greater draft when they come into port."

Days ago, reports indicated a shift in the anticipated eruption location on Reykjanes, now identified as north of Grindavík and east of Svartsengi Power Station and the Blue Lagoon.

However, with the reports, evacuation orders persist, with relaxed regulations for Grindavík residents and business operators. The construction of lava barriers to shield the power station was also reported to be progressing ahead of schedule.

At the time, data suggested ongoing magma flow into the dike below Grindavík and northeast of the town, with some experts speculating partial solidification. Although an eruption remains possible, it is deemed less likely than previously thought, especially within Grindavík's town limits.

However, business activities are gradually resuming, marked by ongoing restoration efforts. Repair work addresses issues such as pipe repairs and filling deep cracks, which require substantial quantities of gravel and sand, per the Iceland Monitor.

Bogi Adólfsson, chairman of Þorbjörn rescue team, guided the officials, emphasizing the positive impact of extended access for residents and businesses. Despite limited changes in the rescue team's role, ongoing evaluations, crack mapping, and town assessments continue. He added that the experienced local rescue team remains actively involved in these processes.

According to Víðir Reynisson, Iceland's head of civil protection and emergency management, authorities, along with European experts, will evaluate the potential use of high-volume pumping to cool the lava and safeguard the town of Grindavík and important infrastructure. 

Reynisson mentioned that "an assessment technical team will arrive in Iceland and they will assist us in assessing the possibilities."

Aside from the threat of eruption, Grindavík, situated close to the Svartsengi geothermal plant, faces potential dangers to the main electricity and water supplier for 30,000 residents on the Reykjanes peninsula, a freshwater reservoir, and the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa resort, which has been temporarily closed as a precaution.

Protective reinforcements have been constructed around the Svartsengi plant in recent days to mitigate potential risks in case of an eruption. The Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management also shifted the public safety level from an emergency to a dangerous status. The current "Alert Phase" indicates an increased risk in the region, suggesting the potential implementation of restrictions, closures, and evacuation protocols.

Given the significant damage to crucial infrastructure, particularly the sewage system, it seems probable that Grindavik residents won't be able to return home for several months.

Those compelled to seek temporary accommodation are receiving government-backed financial aid to address rental expenses. Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir has indicated that Parliament will deliberate on housing assistance for evacuees this week, with expectations for the passage of a bill concerning financial support.