Volcanic Eruption in Iceland Displaces Residents

Volcanic activity forced about 4,000 residents to evacuate the town of Gindavik, Iceland last night. The eruption occurred less than three miles from the town, and less than 10 miles from the Keflavik International Airport.

International flights are not expected to be disrupted from ash clouds. Gas pollution from the eruption is expected in Vestmannaeyjar today, and expected to be detected in Iceland’s capitol Reykjavík later today.

Residents of Iceland are accustomed to volcanic eruptions, and the quick response has resulted with no injuries being reported so far.

Iceland’s President Guðni Th. Jóhannesson said on X, “An eruption has begun near the evacuated town of Grindavík. Our priorities remain to protect lives and infrastructure. Civil Defence has closed off the affected area. We now wait to see what the forces of nature have in store. We are prepared and remain vigilant.”