More than 4 700 earthquakes detected between Fagradalsfjall and Keilir in 48 hours, Iceland

More than 4 700 earthquakes detected between Fagradalsfjall and Keilir in 48 hours, Iceland

More than 4 700 earthquakes have been detected in the area between Fagradalsfjall and Keilir, Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland since the start of seismic swarm on July 4, 2023. Ground deformation (GPS) observations show significant movements, indicating magma propagation in the region where earthquakes are highly concentrated. Magma intrusion is close enough to the Earth’s surface that a volcanic eruption could occur without further escalations in seismic activity or ground deformation.

Intense earthquake swarm signals possible volcanic eruption in Fagradalsfjall, Iceland

Intense earthquake swarm signals possible volcanic eruption in Fagradalsfjall, Iceland

The Icelandic Met Office (IMO) issued a special warning due to intense earthquake activity and the increased likelihood of a volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula. IMO also warned rockfalls are possible on the Reykjanes Peninsula due to ongoing earthquake activity, particularly close to Lake Kleifarvatn.

Small earthquake swarm at Katla volcano, Iceland

Small earthquake swarm at Katla volcano, Iceland

A small earthquake swarm started at Katla volcano, beneath the Myrdalsjökull icecap in Iceland, on March 9, 2023. The last confirmed eruption at this volcano took place in 1918 (VEI 4).

Large fissure opens up in Grímsfjall, Iceland

Large fissure opens up in Grímsfjall, Iceland

A large fissure opened up last week in the southern part of Grímsfjall, near Grímsvötn subglacial volcano in Iceland. Pictures show that there’s a lot of hydrothermal activity in this fissure, but there is no eruption at this moment.

Unusual earthquakes at Katla volcano, Iceland

Unusual earthquakes at Katla volcano, Iceland

Two earthquakes with magnitudes above M3 were detected in Mýrdalsjökull glacier on October 16, sparking discussions about a possible eruption of Katla volcano.