Iceland's Blue Lagoon evacuated as tourists flee in 'red alert' ahead of eruption
The popular Blue Lagoon was evacuated after a 'red alert' was issued in Iceland after a volcano began spewing smoke - with locals and tourists fearing an eruption is imminent
Tourists have been rushed out of a popular destination as lava started to flow from the Sunddhnúksgígar volcano in Iceland, sparking fears of an impending eruption.
Experts have noted a rise in seismic activity in recent weeks, suggesting that pressure at the eruption site is building. In anticipation of a potential eruption, which could start suddenly with minimal warning, the famed Blue Lagoon - a spa known for its geothermal waters - has been cleared out, according to local news outlets.
The Icelandic Met Office shared in an update: "An earthquake swarm began at around 6:30 AM this morning on the Sundhnúks Crater Row.
"The swarm is located between Sýlingarfell and Stóra-Skógfell, in a similar area as seen prior to previous eruptions. The earthquake swarm was followed by a noticeable change in deformation and pressure changes in boreholes operated by HS Orka. Both independent measurements were a clear sign of the onset of a magma intrusion.
"No magma has reached the surface as of now. But, an eruption is likely to occur.", reports the Mirror.
In a subsequent update, it added: "The signs that are visible show the magma is moving both to the northeast and also to the south towards Grindavík. At this stage it is not possible to say where the magma will emerge, but the shift of deformation signs to the south was not seen, for example, in the eruption that began in November 2024."
Grindavík's responders are on high alert, reporting tremors and potential ground fissures that suggest the town might be experiencing cracking.
In a swift response to safety concerns, the luxurious Blue Lagoon resort evacuated 200 guests in just 40 minutes. Helga Árnadóttir, who oversees sales, marketing, and development at Blue Lagoon, confirmed: "Guests are actually arriving or on their way to another hotel and employees are going home. This went well, just like before."
The neighboring town of Grindavík has also been urged to evacuate due to the unfolding situation. Police chief Úlfar Lúðvíksson from Suðurnes informed Vísir that despite the warnings, some residents are choosing to stay put.
He stated: "There are some who don't want to leave. We are not going to force people to leave, but we are making these people aware of the situation."
Locals have reported significant seismic activity today, along with signs of "deformation" beneath the streets, sparking concerns about potential fractures within the town.
Although past volcanic eruptions have had minimal impact on air travel, authorities remain vigilant as they monitor the looming threat of eruption.
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