A pollution warning has been issued for Iceland’s capital Reykjavik after a volcanic eruption in Reykjanes peninsula late Monday (Dec 18), said the country’s meteorological office. Meanwhile, the lava spewing from the volcano appeared to be flowing away from the only nearby town and the intensity of the eruption dropped over the past day or so.&nbsp;

Last month, nearly 4,000 people from the Icelandic fishing town of Grindavik, which is around 40 kilometres away from the capital city of Reykjavik, were evacuated due to the threat of the volcano.&nbsp;

However, since the lava is reportedly flowing away from the town there is hope that homes would be safe even though seismic activity could last months, said the officials, on Tuesday (Dec 19).&nbsp;

<h2>Pollution warning in Reykjavik</h2>

The volcanic eruption in southwest Iceland which the government said “does not present a threat to life” took place around 10:17 pm (local time) after weeks of intense earthquakes and tremors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/iceland-volcano-is-ejecting-enough-lava-to-fill-olympic-swimming-pool-in-20-seconds-671351">Iceland volcano is ejecting enough lava to fill olympic swimming pool in 20 seconds</a>

The eruption has prompted the Icelandic Met Office to issue a gas pollution warning for the country’s capital city by Tuesday evening or Wednesday morning. The smell of ash and smoke, BBC citing residents said, is being picked up as far as 30 kilometres from the eruption site.&nbsp;

The eruption late on Monday spewed lava and smoke more than 100 metres into the air after weeks of intense seismic activity. While the eruption continues to weaken, the volcanic plume reportedly appeared to move from the west and northwest on Tuesday.

The Icelandic government, in a statement, also dismissed international travel concerns due to the smoke and ash and said, “There are no disruptions to flights to and from Iceland and international flight corridors remain open.”&nbsp;

The eruption opened a four-kilometre fissure but even at its southernmost point, the crack was still around three kilometres away from Grindavik, said the Icelandic Met Office.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thrill-seekers-ignore-danger-warnings-to-capture-volcano-eruption-in-iceland-heres-what-happens-next-671383">Thrill-seekers ignore danger warnings to capture volcano eruption in Iceland. Here’s what happens next</a>

“Everything happened so fast,” Kristin Maria Birgisdottir, 43, a Grindavik resident who has been evacuated since November 10 told Reuters.&nbsp;

“I had already put my kids to sleep, and I was already in bed when I saw someone posted that it had erupted. I took a screenshot, and thought to myself that it was a bad joke.”&nbsp;

<h2>Christmas celebrations away from home</h2>

Since the eruption took place yesterday, it has quashed the hopes of the residents of Grindavik who were hoping to celebrate Christmas at their homes which they were evacuated from last month.

“Unfortunately, the hope that had ignited in the hearts of many about the possibility of celebrating Christmas at home in Grindavik was extinguished when the eruption began yesterday,” said Mayor of Grindavik Fannar Jonasson, in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dramatic-images-of-a-volcanic-eruption-in-iceland-emerge-as-lava-escapes-fishing-town-of-grindavik-671411">Dramatic images of a volcanic eruption in Iceland emerge, as lava escapes fishing town of Grindavik</a>

While the lava is not flowing towards Grindavik, media reports citing geologists and volcanologists have said there is no telling when the eruption will end.&nbsp;

“It could potentially go on for several months. It could also just stop later today or tomorrow,” said Halldor Geirson, an associate professor at the Institute of Earth Sciences at the University of Iceland, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A pollution warning has been issued for Iceland’s capital Reykjavik after a volcanic eruption in Reykjanes peninsula late Monday (Dec 18), said the country’s meteorological office.

A pollution warning has been issued for Iceland’s capital Reykjavik after a volcanic eruption in Reykjanes peninsula late Monday (Dec 18), said the country’s meteorological office. Meanwhile, the lava spewing from the volcano appeared to be flowing away from the only nearby town and the intensity of the eruption dropped over the past day or so. Last month, nearly 4,000 people from the Icelandic fishing town of Grindavik, which is around 40 kilometres away from the capital city of Reykjavik, were evacuated due to the threat of the volcano. However, since the lava is reportedly flowing away from the town there is hope that homes would be safe even though seismic activity could last months, said the officials, on Tuesday (Dec 19). Pollution warning in Reykjavik The volcanic eruption in southwest Iceland which the government said “does not present a threat to life” took place around 10:17 pm (local time) after weeks of intense earthquakes and tremors. ALSO READ | Iceland volcano is ejecting enough lava to fill olympic swimming pool in 20 seconds The eruption has prompted the Icelandic Met Office to issue a gas pollution warning for the country’s capital city by Tuesday evening or Wednesday morning. The smell of ash and smoke, BBC citing residents said, is being picked up as far as 30 kilometres from the eruption site. The eruption late on Monday spewed lava and smoke more than 100 metres into the air after weeks of intense seismic activity. While the eruption continues to weaken, the volcanic plume reportedly appeared to move from the west and northwest on Tuesday. The Icelandic government, in a statement, also dismissed international travel concerns due to the smoke and ash and said, “There are no disruptions to flights to and from Iceland and international flight corridors remain open.” The eruption opened a four-kilometre fissure but even at its southernmost point, the crack was still around three kilometres away from Grindavik, said the Icelandic Met Office. ALSO READ | Thrill-seekers ignore danger warnings to capture volcano eruption in Iceland. Here’s what happens next “Everything happened so fast,” Kristin Maria Birgisdottir, 43, a Grindavik resident who has been evacuated since November 10 told Reuters. “I had already put my kids to sleep, and I was already in bed when I saw someone posted that it had erupted. I took a screenshot, and thought to myself that it was a bad joke.” Christmas celebrations away from home Since the eruption took place yesterday, it has quashed the hopes of the residents of Grindavik who were hoping to celebrate Christmas at their homes which they were evacuated from last month. “Unfortunately, the hope that had ignited in the hearts of many about the possibility of celebrating Christmas at home in Grindavik was extinguished when the eruption began yesterday,” said Mayor of Grindavik Fannar Jonasson, in a statement. ALSO READ | Dramatic images of a volcanic eruption in Iceland emerge, as lava escapes fishing town of Grindavik While the lava is not flowing towards Grindavik, media reports citing geologists and volcanologists have said there is no telling when the eruption will end. “It could potentially go on for several months. It could also just stop later today or tomorrow,” said Halldor Geirson, an associate professor at the Institute of Earth Sciences at the University of Iceland, as quoted by Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Iceland volcano: Pollution warning issued for capital Reykjavik as smoke, ash spread

Following weeks of seismic activity, the Reykjanes Peninsula volcano in Iceland erupted. Bright orange molten lava oozed out of the volcano. Over 4,000 residents evacuated from nearby towns.

Iceland volcano erupts in Reykjanes Peninsula | World News | WION

Thrill-seekers on Monday night (Dec 18), ignoring all danger warnings, reached at the site of a huge volcano eruption in Iceland, where boiling lava spewed into the sky. In the pictures, multiple cars can be seen queuing near the area to witness the rarely-seen eruptions.&nbsp;

The eruption started nearly 2.4 miles from the town of Grindavik at the Sundhjuka crater located on the Reykjanes peninsula. The eruptions started after multiple earthquakes forced thousands to evacuate the place last month as a state of emergency was declared by the country.

Speaking to Icelandic broadcaster RUV, scientist Magnus Tumi Gudmundsson, who reached the site on Tuesday morning (Dec 19) onboard a Coast Guard research flight, said that twice the amount of lava he had estimated had already spewed.

Gudmundsson added that the eruption is likely to continue with decreasing intensity but added that scientists have no estimate of how long it can last. "It can be over in a week, or it could take quite a bit longer," he said.

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Even though the situation had created obvious dangers, the Ministry of the Environment had to issue multiple warnings to those who were trying to get close to the volcano. "Think about someone other than yourself and follow the guidelines of the public safety. Please," begged one spokesperson.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Icelandic Police said, "An eruption has begun. We ask people not to be in front of the responders and not to go in the direction of the eruption. It is important that roads and other things are as accessible as possible."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volcano-on-icelands-reykjavik-erupts-in-a-spectacular-lava-show-671096">Lava flows from two-mile crack as Iceland volcano erupts following weeks of anticipation</a>

Police added that the alert level had been raised by them and the civil defence of the country warned people not to approach the area while the situation was being assessed by emergency personnel.&nbsp;

<h2>Thrill-seekers risk life to capture flowing lava</h2>

Defying the orders, the thrill-seekers were seen standing close to the plumes of lava which were spewing out of the volcano.

A tourist from the United States, Robert Donald Forrester III, said, "It's just something from a movie!" Speaking to local media, four boys named Joi, Halli, Stefan and Stefan said that they always try to witness eruptions in Reykjanes.&nbsp;

"We are trying to see the eruption. Unfortunately, we didn't get any closer. It's a hobby that we've had for four years, attending every single eruption, and we'll continue to do so," they said.

Watch:&nbsp;Iceland volcano erupts after weeks of quake activity

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However, the feelings are mixed for local residents. "The town involved might end up under the lava," said Ael Kermarec, a French tour guide who was living in Iceland. "It's amazing to see but, there's kind of a bittersweet feeling at the moment," Kermarec added.

As per the Norwegian Meteorological Agency, nearly 100 to 200 cubic meters of lava has been spewing out per second, which is "many times more than in previous eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula in recent years".

Just after the eruption, Iceland's President Gudni Thorlacius Jóhannesson, said, "It is not clear what damage it can cause, but now we rely on our scientists as well as all those who need to do monitoring and other operations. Above all else, we protect human life but we do all the defense of structures to the best of our ability. I send warm greetings to the people of Grindavík and those who now work on the scene."

(With inputs from agencies)

Thrill-seekers on Monday night (Dec 18), ignoring all danger warnings, reached at the site of a huge volcano eruption in Iceland, where boiling lava spewed into the sky.

Thrill-seekers on Monday night (Dec 18), ignoring all danger warnings, reached at the site of a huge volcano eruption in Iceland, where boiling lava spewed into the sky. In the pictures, multiple cars can be seen queuing near the area to witness the rarely-seen eruptions. The eruption started nearly 2.4 miles from the town of Grindavik at the Sundhjuka crater located on the Reykjanes peninsula. The eruptions started after multiple earthquakes forced thousands to evacuate the place last month as a state of emergency was declared by the country. Speaking to Icelandic broadcaster RUV, scientist Magnus Tumi Gudmundsson, who reached the site on Tuesday morning (Dec 19) onboard a Coast Guard research flight, said that twice the amount of lava he had estimated had already spewed. Gudmundsson added that the eruption is likely to continue with decreasing intensity but added that scientists have no estimate of how long it can last. "It can be over in a week, or it could take quite a bit longer," he said. Even though the situation had created obvious dangers, the Ministry of the Environment had to issue multiple warnings to those who were trying to get close to the volcano. "Think about someone other than yourself and follow the guidelines of the public safety. Please," begged one spokesperson. Meanwhile, Icelandic Police said, "An eruption has begun. We ask people not to be in front of the responders and not to go in the direction of the eruption. It is important that roads and other things are as accessible as possible." Also read: Lava flows from two-mile crack as Iceland volcano erupts following weeks of anticipation Police added that the alert level had been raised by them and the civil defence of the country warned people not to approach the area while the situation was being assessed by emergency personnel. Thrill-seekers risk life to capture flowing lava Defying the orders, the thrill-seekers were seen standing close to the plumes of lava which were spewing out of the volcano. A tourist from the United States, Robert Donald Forrester III, said, "It's just something from a movie!" Speaking to local media, four boys named Joi, Halli, Stefan and Stefan said that they always try to witness eruptions in Reykjanes. "We are trying to see the eruption. Unfortunately, we didn't get any closer. It's a hobby that we've had for four years, attending every single eruption, and we'll continue to do so," they said. Watch: Iceland volcano erupts after weeks of quake activity However, the feelings are mixed for local residents. "The town involved might end up under the lava," said Ael Kermarec, a French tour guide who was living in Iceland. "It's amazing to see but, there's kind of a bittersweet feeling at the moment," Kermarec added. As per the Norwegian Meteorological Agency, nearly 100 to 200 cubic meters of lava has been spewing out per second, which is "many times more than in previous eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula in recent years". Just after the eruption, Iceland's President Gudni Thorlacius Jóhannesson, said, "It is not clear what damage it can cause, but now we rely on our scientists as well as all those who need to do monitoring and other operations. Above all else, we protect human life but we do all the defense of structures to the best of our ability. I send warm greetings to the people of Grindavík and those who now work on the scene." (With inputs from agencies)

Thrill-seekers ignore danger warnings to capture volcano eruption in Iceland. Here’s what happens next

A volcano in Iceland erupted on Tuesday (Dec 19) sending molten lava in the sky. The eruption in southwest Iceland took place after the region rumbled due to earthquakes for weeks. The full force of the eruption may have got an outlet and the volcano may be at a comparably lower degree of volcanic activity, but it still packs quite a punch and venturing anywhere near it may be extremely dangerous

An Oxford University expert has confirmed this. David Pyle, an Earth Science professor at the university has said that the volcanic eruption is still belching out enough lava to fill an olympic-sized swimming pool in mere 20 seconds.

"The eruption rate is likely to be in the region of a few hundred cubic metres of lava per second — enough to fill an Olympic swimming pool in about 20 seconds," said Pyle as quoted by Live Science.

"The length of the fissure may be an indication of how much magma had been able to accumulate in the crust over the past few weeks."

Watch | Iceland volcano erupts after weeks of quake activity

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The eruption took place just three kilometres from Grindvik, a fishing port in Iceland which has now been evacuated. The eruption began on Monday at 2217 GMT, said Icelandic Meteorological Office. The Svartsengi geothermal plant is located just two kilometres away from the location of the eruption so the scientists as well&nbsp;as civic authorities in Iceland were keeping a close watch on the volcanic activity.

Scientists had warned for weeks about the eventual eruption and authorities built reinforcements around the power plant for its protection. The power plant supplies electricity to 30,000 people.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volcano-on-icelands-reykjavik-erupts-in-a-spectacular-lava-show-671096">Lava flows from two-mile crack as Iceland volcano erupts following weeks of anticipation</a>

"We hope for the best but it is clear this is a considerable eruption," Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir wrote on Facebook.&nbsp;

According to estimates by Iceland's meteorological office, the volcanic eruption has led to opening of a fissure that is about four kilometres in length (2.5 miles)

By 3 am local time, the met office said that the eruption had stabilised and that "the activity is decreasing". There was no immediate estimate to predict for how long the volcanic activity would last.

(With inputs from agencies)

A volcano in Iceland erupted on Tuesday (Dec 19) sending molten lava in the sky. The eruption in southwest Iceland took place after the region rumbled due to earthquakes for weeks.

A volcano in Iceland erupted on Tuesday (Dec 19) sending molten lava in the sky. The eruption in southwest Iceland took place after the region rumbled due to earthquakes for weeks. The full force of the eruption may have got an outlet and the volcano may be at a comparably lower degree of volcanic activity, but it still packs quite a punch and venturing anywhere near it may be extremely dangerous An Oxford University expert has confirmed this. David Pyle, an Earth Science professor at the university has said that the volcanic eruption is still belching out enough lava to fill an olympic-sized swimming pool in mere 20 seconds. "The eruption rate is likely to be in the region of a few hundred cubic metres of lava per second — enough to fill an Olympic swimming pool in about 20 seconds," said Pyle as quoted by Live Science. "The length of the fissure may be an indication of how much magma had been able to accumulate in the crust over the past few weeks." Watch | Iceland volcano erupts after weeks of quake activity × The eruption took place just three kilometres from Grindvik, a fishing port in Iceland which has now been evacuated. The eruption began on Monday at 2217 GMT, said Icelandic Meteorological Office. The Svartsengi geothermal plant is located just two kilometres away from the location of the eruption so the scientists as well as civic authorities in Iceland were keeping a close watch on the volcanic activity. Scientists had warned for weeks about the eventual eruption and authorities built reinforcements around the power plant for its protection. The power plant supplies electricity to 30,000 people. Also Read | Lava flows from two-mile crack as Iceland volcano erupts following weeks of anticipation "We hope for the best but it is clear this is a considerable eruption," Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir wrote on Facebook. According to estimates by Iceland's meteorological office, the volcanic eruption has led to opening of a fissure that is about four kilometres in length (2.5 miles) By 3 am local time, the met office said that the eruption had stabilised and that "the activity is decreasing". There was no immediate estimate to predict for how long the volcanic activity would last. (With inputs from agencies)

Iceland volcano is ejecting enough lava to fill olympic swimming pool in 20 seconds

Dramatic images of a volcanic eruption in Iceland emerge, as lava escapes fishing town of Grindavik

Drone footage has captured a volcanic eruption in south western Iceland. Visuals show orange lava pouring out of the cracks.

Iceland volcano erupts in Reykjanes peninsula, weeks after multiple quakes

A volcano erupted late on Monday (December 18) in southwest Iceland, spewing lava and smoke across a wide area after weeks of intense earthquake activity, the country's Meteorological Office said, threatening a nearby town.

Iceland volcano erupts after weeks of quake activity

Officials in Iceland have warned of a volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula amid the region of the country around the Svartsengi geothermal power plant continuing to inflate as magma pooled under the surface of Earth's crust. According to a report by Newsweek on Friday (Dec 15), Iceland's meteorological office said that since a burst of seismic activity on Nov 10, there has been a significant crustal uplift&nbsp;in the region surrounding the plant.

The office had previously expressed uncertainty over when a volcanic eruption could occur following a decline in the number and severity of earthquakes around the vertical magma dike.

On Wednesday, the office said that magma continued to accumulate around Svartseng, though the rate of crustal uplift has decreased somewhat since last week. However, the rate was still greater than before Nov 10.&nbsp;

This meant that further dikes of an eruption remained possible, the report said citing the office.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iceland-volcanic-eruption-may-happen-with-30-minute-warning-met-office-661221">A 30-minute warning might be all Iceland residents get when the volcano erupts, says Met Office</a>

The Reykjanes peninsula is a volcanic and seismic hot spot southwest of the capital. According to a report by the news agency Reuters last month,&nbsp;Ava fountains erupted spectacularly in March 2021 from a fissure in the ground measuring between 500-750 metres long in the region's Fagradalsfjall volcanic system. In that year, volcanic activity continued for six months.

Last year too, a three-week eruption happened in the same area, followed by another in July of this year.

Newsweek reported that between 1,500 and 1,800 earthquakes per day were reported from the Nov 10 seismic activity. These earthquakes went on for nearly two weeks, before dropping to the hundreds.

On Wednesday, the meteorological office said that between 200 and 300 quakes were reported on Monday and Tuesday.&nbsp;

While experts have said that the horizontal intrusion causing the Earth's crust to bend upwards around Svartsengi would be unlikely to directly cause an eruption on the surface, it is thought to be channelling magma into a vertical intrusion near the town of Grindavik- where an eruption is more likely.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Officials in Iceland have warned of a volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula amid the region of the country around the Svartsengi geothermal power plant continuing to inflate as magma pooled under the surface of Earth's crust.

Officials in Iceland have warned of a volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula amid the region of the country around the Svartsengi geothermal power plant continuing to inflate as magma pooled under the surface of Earth's crust. According to a report by Newsweek on Friday (Dec 15), Iceland's meteorological office said that since a burst of seismic activity on Nov 10, there has been a significant crustal uplift in the region surrounding the plant. The office had previously expressed uncertainty over when a volcanic eruption could occur following a decline in the number and severity of earthquakes around the vertical magma dike. On Wednesday, the office said that magma continued to accumulate around Svartseng, though the rate of crustal uplift has decreased somewhat since last week. However, the rate was still greater than before Nov 10. This meant that further dikes of an eruption remained possible, the report said citing the office. Also read: A 30-minute warning might be all Iceland residents get when the volcano erupts, says Met Office The Reykjanes peninsula is a volcanic and seismic hot spot southwest of the capital. According to a report by the news agency Reuters last month, Ava fountains erupted spectacularly in March 2021 from a fissure in the ground measuring between 500-750 metres long in the region's Fagradalsfjall volcanic system. In that year, volcanic activity continued for six months. Last year too, a three-week eruption happened in the same area, followed by another in July of this year. Newsweek reported that between 1,500 and 1,800 earthquakes per day were reported from the Nov 10 seismic activity. These earthquakes went on for nearly two weeks, before dropping to the hundreds. On Wednesday, the meteorological office said that between 200 and 300 quakes were reported on Monday and Tuesday. While experts have said that the horizontal intrusion causing the Earth's crust to bend upwards around Svartsengi would be unlikely to directly cause an eruption on the surface, it is thought to be channelling magma into a vertical intrusion near the town of Grindavik- where an eruption is more likely. (With inputs from agencies)

Officials in Iceland warn of volcanic eruption on Reykjanes Peninsula: Report

Officials in Iceland fear that a potential Fagradalsfjall volcanic eruption may occur in the southwest part of the country with only 30 minutes prior notice, even as adverse weather conditions are hampering earthquake monitoring efforts.

The meteorological office on Monday (Nov 21) said it is still getting reports of hundreds of minor earthquakes surrounding the southwest Grindavik town—a fishing town located just 16 miles (25.7 kilometres) from Keflavík airport, Iceland's largest airport and the main hub for international flights.

<h2>Over 1,000 tremors reported&nbsp;</h2>

Thousands have already been moved out of Grindavik, with officials warning that they could remain evacuated for months.

More than 1,000 tremors have been reported in the last 24 hours from Monday in Iceland, heightening fears of imminent volcanic eruption.

Director of the country’s civil defence police unit Vídir Reynisson told reporters that the volcano could blow ‘within days, not months’.

The Met Office said they have detected magmatic gas at a borehole in Svartsengi, suggesting an imminent eruption of the Fagradalsfjall&nbsp;volcano in the next few days, with Grindavik town most at risk.

<h2>Suspense over volcano eruption in Iceland continues</h2>

Head of the department at the Icelandic Meteorological Office, Kristín Jónsdóttir said that they don’t have any other option except “to wait in suspense for the next few days” to see how the situation pans out, the Independent news outlet reported.

“All the big signs are already there, so we are looking for the small signs, the signs that say that even though we are monitoring very closely,” Vídir Reynisson, chief of civil protection told the Independent on Monday (Nov 21).

Meanwhile, the country’s tourism authority has appealed for calm.

“It is impossible to predict whether a volcanic eruption will break out, or exactly when or where in the vicinity of Grindavík a potential eruption might break out,” according to the Visit Iceland website.

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“It is important to note that there are currently 46 volcanoes actively erupting around the world, without any major disruption to international air traffic.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukrainian-sharpshooter-breaks-world-record-by-killing-russian-soldier-from-38-km-away-661002">Watch | Ukrainian sniper kills Russian enemy from a record distance of 3.8 km</a>

The nation’s flagship airline, Iceland Air, also said that the ongoing seismic activity “has not affected” flights to or from Iceland.

“We are in close contact with Icelandic authorities and are monitoring the situation closely,” per the carrier’s travel alert.

Officials in Iceland fear that a potential Fagradalsfjall volcanic eruption may occur in the southwest part of the country with only 30 minutes prior notice, even as adverse weather conditions are hampering earthquake monitoring efforts.

Officials in Iceland fear that a potential Fagradalsfjall volcanic eruption may occur in the southwest part of the country with only 30 minutes prior notice, even as adverse weather conditions are hampering earthquake monitoring efforts. The meteorological office on Monday (Nov 21) said it is still getting reports of hundreds of minor earthquakes surrounding the southwest Grindavik town—a fishing town located just 16 miles (25.7 kilometres) from Keflavík airport, Iceland's largest airport and the main hub for international flights. Over 1,000 tremors reported Thousands have already been moved out of Grindavik, with officials warning that they could remain evacuated for months. More than 1,000 tremors have been reported in the last 24 hours from Monday in Iceland, heightening fears of imminent volcanic eruption. Director of the country’s civil defence police unit Vídir Reynisson told reporters that the volcano could blow ‘within days, not months’. The Met Office said they have detected magmatic gas at a borehole in Svartsengi, suggesting an imminent eruption of the Fagradalsfjall volcano in the next few days, with Grindavik town most at risk. Suspense over volcano eruption in Iceland continues Head of the department at the Icelandic Meteorological Office, Kristín Jónsdóttir said that they don’t have any other option except “to wait in suspense for the next few days” to see how the situation pans out, the Independent news outlet reported. “All the big signs are already there, so we are looking for the small signs, the signs that say that even though we are monitoring very closely,” Vídir Reynisson, chief of civil protection told the Independent on Monday (Nov 21). Meanwhile, the country’s tourism authority has appealed for calm. “It is impossible to predict whether a volcanic eruption will break out, or exactly when or where in the vicinity of Grindavík a potential eruption might break out,” according to the Visit Iceland website. Also read | Hamas chief says 'close to reaching' truce deal with Israel amid war “It is important to note that there are currently 46 volcanoes actively erupting around the world, without any major disruption to international air traffic.” Also read | Watch | Ukrainian sniper kills Russian enemy from a record distance of 3.8 km The nation’s flagship airline, Iceland Air, also said that the ongoing seismic activity “has not affected” flights to or from Iceland. “We are in close contact with Icelandic authorities and are monitoring the situation closely,” per the carrier’s travel alert.

A 30-minute warning might be all Iceland residents get when the volcano erupts: Met Office

Authorities in Iceland declared a state of emergency after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country's southwestern Reykjanes peninsula. Experts believe that the recent quakes could be a precursor to a volcanic eruption.

Iceland braces for imminent natural disaster as volcanic eruption looms

Iceland: Situation volatile as volcanic eruption likely within days or weeks

Nearly 4000 evacuate as 800 tremors strike Iceland, probability of eruption remains high

A town has been rapidly sinking in Iceland as roads and buildings are torn apart by gaping chasms, and magma collects only a few hundred metres beneath the surface as the chances of a volcanic eruption increase.&nbsp;

Magma has been making its way rapidly under Grindavik like an "underground freight train", stated the director at the Icelandic Met Office Matthew James Roberts, who further warned that "nature always wins if the eruption lasts long enough". &nbsp;

Speaking to BBC, he stated that even if no explosive blast occurs near Fagradalsfjall volcano, &nbsp;a low-intensity eruption can see lava flow from various fissures 'for weeks', possibly reaching Grindavik.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-20000-tremors-since-late-oct-iceland-declares-state-of-emergency-over-volcanic-eruption-threat-657504">Over 20,000 tremors since late Oct: Iceland declares state of emergency over volcanic eruption threat</a>

Scientists have stated that depending on where volcanic eruption takes place, it can 'certainly' flow into the fishing community, which had become a 'ghost town' after its 4,000 residents left on Saturday (Nov 11).

<h2>Walls getting constructed to control flow of lava</h2>

As the area prepares for an eruption, work has been underway to construct a huge wall urgently which can stop the lava from reaching the town or entering the nearby geothermal power plant.

The officials have also been constructing a large defensive wall, which is seen as the biggest in Iceland, to protect the Svartsengi geothermal power plant from lava in the worst-case scenario.

The Reykjanes Peninsula, which is located in Reykjavik's southwest, has been rocked by hundreds of tremors, and a 2,000-year-old fissure has been widening.&nbsp;

The east of Grindavik has been deprived of electricity since Thursday morning (Nov 16), as power lines were ruptured by subsidence overnight.

Watch:&nbsp;Around 800 tremors strike Iceland, probability| of eruption remains high

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The earth's continued movement has also seen bursts of hot water from underground pipes, with steam coming out from beneath homes and gaping cracks in roads.

As per experts, the activity indicates that there is "still something going" on in the magma corridor. "It's just been very similar to the past few days," stated Sigridur Kristjansdottir of the Norwegian Meteorological Agency, the Daily Mail reported.

"About eighty to a hundred earthquakes per hour, most below magnitude two, but a few above magnitude two. We also see an expansion in our GPS measurements, so there is still something going on," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A town has been rapidly sinking in Iceland as roads and buildings are torn apart by gaping chasms, and magma collects only a few hundred metres beneath the surface as the chances of a volcanic eruption increase.

A town has been rapidly sinking in Iceland as roads and buildings are torn apart by gaping chasms, and magma collects only a few hundred metres beneath the surface as the chances of a volcanic eruption increase. Magma has been making its way rapidly under Grindavik like an "underground freight train", stated the director at the Icelandic Met Office Matthew James Roberts, who further warned that "nature always wins if the eruption lasts long enough". Speaking to BBC, he stated that even if no explosive blast occurs near Fagradalsfjall volcano, a low-intensity eruption can see lava flow from various fissures 'for weeks', possibly reaching Grindavik. Also Read: Over 20,000 tremors since late Oct: Iceland declares state of emergency over volcanic eruption threat Scientists have stated that depending on where volcanic eruption takes place, it can 'certainly' flow into the fishing community, which had become a 'ghost town' after its 4,000 residents left on Saturday (Nov 11). Walls getting constructed to control flow of lava As the area prepares for an eruption, work has been underway to construct a huge wall urgently which can stop the lava from reaching the town or entering the nearby geothermal power plant. The officials have also been constructing a large defensive wall, which is seen as the biggest in Iceland, to protect the Svartsengi geothermal power plant from lava in the worst-case scenario. The Reykjanes Peninsula, which is located in Reykjavik's southwest, has been rocked by hundreds of tremors, and a 2,000-year-old fissure has been widening. The east of Grindavik has been deprived of electricity since Thursday morning (Nov 16), as power lines were ruptured by subsidence overnight. Watch: Around 800 tremors strike Iceland, probability| of eruption remains high The earth's continued movement has also seen bursts of hot water from underground pipes, with steam coming out from beneath homes and gaping cracks in roads. As per experts, the activity indicates that there is "still something going" on in the magma corridor. "It's just been very similar to the past few days," stated Sigridur Kristjansdottir of the Norwegian Meteorological Agency, the Daily Mail reported. "About eighty to a hundred earthquakes per hour, most below magnitude two, but a few above magnitude two. We also see an expansion in our GPS measurements, so there is still something going on," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Situation may worsen in Iceland's sinking town, lava likely to flow from fissures for weeks, warn experts

Iceland is bracing itself for a volcanic eruption in the coming days. Experts warn if an eruption does happen the Icelandic town of Grindavik will be completly destroyed and will lead to extensive ash clouds.

Gravitas: After 900 earthquakes in a single day, what's next for Iceland?

Around 800 tremors strike Iceland, probability| of eruption remains high

Iceland braces for volcanic eruption | Around 800 tremors strike Iceland

Authorities in Iceland on Friday (Nov 10) declared a state of emergency after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country's southwestern Reykjanes peninsula. Experts believe that the recent quakes could be a precursor to a volcanic eruption.

Earthquakes from 1800s are triggering aftershocks: Scientists

Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption after the nation was rattled by a series of earthquakes which has since prompted officials to declare a state of emergency. Huge cracks could be seen on roads in the Icelandic town of Grindavik, where most of the tremors took place.&nbsp;

So far, around 4,000 residents from Grindavik have been evacuated following an evacuation order in the early hours of Saturday. Residents were briefly allowed back to their homes for a limited time to collect belongings, on Monday (Nov 13).&nbsp;

<h2>Watch | Massive cracks on roads in Grindavik</h2>

Images and videos from the Icelandic town show large cracks running through the town centre, leaving its main street impassable, while steam could be seen rising from the ground.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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In Iceland, roads have cracked under the pressure of underground magma as the country prepared for a possible volcanic eruption. Southern Iceland was hit with 900 earthquakes on Monday, adding to the tens of thousands of tremors reported in recent weeks <a href="https://t.co/HqYYzR9gPq">https://t.co/HqYYzR9gPq</a> <a href="https://t.co/4z1xtJbUR2">pic.twitter.com/4z1xtJbUR2</a>
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While fears around the impending eruption are high, a sinkhole was also&nbsp;discovered on Sunday (Nov 12).&nbsp;

Volcanologist Thorvaldur Þórðarson told Iceland’s local Channel 2 Evening News that the metre-deep sinkhole formed in Grindavík indicated that the magma tunnel, formed under the town, was very close to the surface and that the eruption would occur within the town limits.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinkhole-discovered-under-iceland-town-sparks-fears-of-massive-volcanic-eruption-658283">Volcano fears: Sinkhole under Iceland town adds to panic, indicates magma tunnel very close to surface</a>

“It indicates that it will soon erupt and that, unfortunately, indicates that the eruption will occur within the town limits of Grindavík,” Thorvaldur told Icelandic media on Sunday.

<h2>State of emergency in Iceland</h2>

Officials in Iceland declared a state of emergency on Friday (Nov 10) &nbsp;after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country’s southwestern Reykjanes Peninsula.&nbsp;

The probability of an eruption remained high despite a decrease in seismic activity, said the Icelandic Meteorological Institute, in a statement on Tuesday (Nov 14).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iceland-on-edge-seismic-activity-subsides-but-volcanic-threat-looms-658194">Iceland on edge: Seismic activity subsides, but volcanic threat looms</a>

The institute also said that they recorded nearly 800 earthquakes between midnight and noon on Tuesday, fewer than the two previous days.&nbsp;

“Less seismic activity typically precedes an eruption, because you have come so close to the surface that you cannot build up a lot of tension to trigger large earthquakes,” said Rikke Pedersen, who heads the Nordic Volcanological Centre based in Reykjavik, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

"It should never be taken as a sign that an outbreak is not on the way," she added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption after the nation was rattled by a series of earthquakes which has since prompted officials to declare a state of emergency.

Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption after the nation was rattled by a series of earthquakes which has since prompted officials to declare a state of emergency. Huge cracks could be seen on roads in the Icelandic town of Grindavik, where most of the tremors took place. So far, around 4,000 residents from Grindavik have been evacuated following an evacuation order in the early hours of Saturday. Residents were briefly allowed back to their homes for a limited time to collect belongings, on Monday (Nov 13). Watch | Massive cracks on roads in Grindavik Images and videos from the Icelandic town show large cracks running through the town centre, leaving its main street impassable, while steam could be seen rising from the ground. New aerial footage from Grindavik, Iceland, shows a large crack in the center of the town with apparent steam emanating from it. pic.twitter.com/Mjlxafr8ot — Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) November 13, 2023 × In Iceland, roads have cracked under the pressure of underground magma as the country prepared for a possible volcanic eruption. Southern Iceland was hit with 900 earthquakes on Monday, adding to the tens of thousands of tremors reported in recent weeks https://t.co/HqYYzR9gPq pic.twitter.com/4z1xtJbUR2 — Reuters (@Reuters) November 13, 2023 × While fears around the impending eruption are high, a sinkhole was also discovered on Sunday (Nov 12). Volcanologist Thorvaldur Þórðarson told Iceland’s local Channel 2 Evening News that the metre-deep sinkhole formed in Grindavík indicated that the magma tunnel, formed under the town, was very close to the surface and that the eruption would occur within the town limits. ALSO READ | Volcano fears: Sinkhole under Iceland town adds to panic, indicates magma tunnel very close to surface “It indicates that it will soon erupt and that, unfortunately, indicates that the eruption will occur within the town limits of Grindavík,” Thorvaldur told Icelandic media on Sunday. State of emergency in Iceland Officials in Iceland declared a state of emergency on Friday (Nov 10) after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country’s southwestern Reykjanes Peninsula. The probability of an eruption remained high despite a decrease in seismic activity, said the Icelandic Meteorological Institute, in a statement on Tuesday (Nov 14). ALSO READ | Iceland on edge: Seismic activity subsides, but volcanic threat looms The institute also said that they recorded nearly 800 earthquakes between midnight and noon on Tuesday, fewer than the two previous days. “Less seismic activity typically precedes an eruption, because you have come so close to the surface that you cannot build up a lot of tension to trigger large earthquakes,” said Rikke Pedersen, who heads the Nordic Volcanological Centre based in Reykjavik, as quoted by Reuters. "It should never be taken as a sign that an outbreak is not on the way," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Earthquakes in Iceland cause massive cracks on roads, smoke rises from ground

Iceland: Relentless earthquakes cause large cracks, holes in roads

Iceland prepares for volcanic eruption, 900 tremors recorded on November 13

Iceland is preparing for a possible&nbsp;volcanic eruption following a series of around 800 earthquakes in 14 hours. While fears around the impending eruption are high, a sinkhole has now been discovered under an Iceland town that was evacuated over the weekend. The discovery of this sinkhole has sparked fears that a massive volcanic eruption was on its way.

Volcanologist Thorvaldur Þórðarson told Iceland's local Channel 2 Evening News that the metre-deep sinkhole formed in Grindavík indicated that the magma tunnel, formed under the town, was very close to the surface and that the eruption would occur within the town limits.

“It indicates that it will soon erupt and that, unfortunately, indicates that the eruption will occur within the town limits of Grindavík,” Þorvaldur told Icelandic media on Sunday.

“It’s a darker scenario than I had imagined.”

Nearly 3,000 residents of the Iceland town were evacuated over the weekend after a series of earthquakes ignited fears of volcanic eruption.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office on Saturday (Nov 11) said there was a “considerable” risk of an eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula, taking into consideration the size of the underground magma intrusion and the rate at which it was moving.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-20000-tremors-since-late-oct-iceland-declares-state-of-emergency-over-volcanic-eruption-threat-657504">Over 20,000 tremors since late Oct: Iceland declares state of emergency over volcanic eruption threat</a>

“I don’t think it’s long before an eruption, hours or a few days. The chance of an eruption has increased significantly,” Thorvaldur Thordarson, professor of volcanology at the University of Iceland, told state broadcaster RUV.

<h2>Iceland declares state of emergency&nbsp;</h2>

Authorities in Iceland on Friday (Nov 10) declared a state of emergency after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country's southwestern Reykjanes peninsula.&nbsp;

The Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management said in a statement: "The National police chief … declares a state of emergency for civil defence due to the intense earthquake (activity) at Sundhnjukagigar, north of Grindavik."&nbsp;

The administration further warned that an eruption could take place "in several days" as it said that "earthquakes can become larger than those that have occurred and this series of events could lead to an eruption".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption following a series of around 800 earthquakes in 14 hours. While fears around the impending eruption are high, a sinkhole has now been discovered under an Iceland town that was evacuated over the weekend.

Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption following a series of around 800 earthquakes in 14 hours. While fears around the impending eruption are high, a sinkhole has now been discovered under an Iceland town that was evacuated over the weekend. The discovery of this sinkhole has sparked fears that a massive volcanic eruption was on its way. Volcanologist Thorvaldur Þórðarson told Iceland's local Channel 2 Evening News that the metre-deep sinkhole formed in Grindavík indicated that the magma tunnel, formed under the town, was very close to the surface and that the eruption would occur within the town limits. “It indicates that it will soon erupt and that, unfortunately, indicates that the eruption will occur within the town limits of Grindavík,” Þorvaldur told Icelandic media on Sunday. “It’s a darker scenario than I had imagined.” Nearly 3,000 residents of the Iceland town were evacuated over the weekend after a series of earthquakes ignited fears of volcanic eruption. The Icelandic Meteorological Office on Saturday (Nov 11) said there was a “considerable” risk of an eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula, taking into consideration the size of the underground magma intrusion and the rate at which it was moving. Also read: Over 20,000 tremors since late Oct: Iceland declares state of emergency over volcanic eruption threat “I don’t think it’s long before an eruption, hours or a few days. The chance of an eruption has increased significantly,” Thorvaldur Thordarson, professor of volcanology at the University of Iceland, told state broadcaster RUV. Iceland declares state of emergency Authorities in Iceland on Friday (Nov 10) declared a state of emergency after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country's southwestern Reykjanes peninsula. The Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management said in a statement: "The National police chief … declares a state of emergency for civil defence due to the intense earthquake (activity) at Sundhnjukagigar, north of Grindavik." The administration further warned that an eruption could take place "in several days" as it said that "earthquakes can become larger than those that have occurred and this series of events could lead to an eruption". (With inputs from agencies)

Volcano fears: Sinkhole under Iceland town adds to panic, indicates magma tunnel very close to surface

Iceland on edge: Seismic activity subsides, but volcanic threat looms

Authorities in Iceland on Friday (Nov 10) declared a state of emergency after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country's southwestern Reykjanes peninsula. Experts believe that the recent quakes could be a precursor to a volcanic eruption.&nbsp;

The Icelandic Met Office (IMO) has detected more than 20,000 tremors since late Oct with 1,400 in the 24 hours to midday on Thursday as the quakes appear to increase.&nbsp;

The Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management said in a statement: "The National police chief … declares a state of emergency for civil defence due to the intense earthquake (activity) at Sundhnjukagigar, north of Grindavik."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/global-warming-has-upped-greenland-glacier-melting-five-folds-in-20-years-657471">Global warming has upped Greenland glacier melting five-folds in 20 years</a>&nbsp;

The administration further warned that an eruption could take place "in several days" as it said that "earthquakes can become larger than those that have occurred and this series of events could lead to an eruption".&nbsp;

The Department of Civil Protection also said it was sending the patrol vessel Thor to the village of Grindavik, home to around 4,000 people and located some three kilometres southwest of the area where Friday's earthquake swarm was registered,&nbsp;"for security purposes".&nbsp;

The local authorities have also come up with evacuation plans in case of an eruption and the police closed a road running north-south to Grindavik on Friday after it was damaged by the tremors.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rare-discovery-tumor-with-teeth-found-in-3000-year-old-egyptian-burial-657424">Rare discovery: Tumour with teeth found in 3,000-year-old Egyptian burial</a>

Two powerful earthquakes were felt as far away as Reykjavik, Iceland's capital and along much of the country's southern coast around 1730 GMT. The IMO officials have said that the preliminary figures suggest that the biggest tremor had a magnitude of 5.2, north of Grindavik.&nbsp;

The IMO said that there is an accumulation of magma is underground at a depth of about five kilometres and if it starts moving towards the surface it could lead to a volcanic eruption.&nbsp;

"The most likely scenario is that it will take several days rather than hours for magma to reach the surface," it said.

"If a fissure were to appear where the seismic activity is at its highest now, lava would flow to the southeast and to the west, but not towards Grindavik."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Climate change and volcanic eruptions&nbsp;

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<h2>Volcanoes in Iceland&nbsp;</h2>

Three eruptions have occurred on the Reykjanes peninsula since 2021, in March 2021, August 2022, and July 2023. These three eruptions were in remote places with no infrastructure or people.&nbsp;

Overall, Iceland has 33 active volcanic systems, which is the highest number in Europe. The North Atlantic island straddles the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a crack in the ocean floor separating the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Prior to the March 2021 eruption in an uninhabited area around Mount Fagradalsfjall, the Reykjanes volcanic system had remained dormant for eight centuries.

But now, volcanologists believe the new cycle of increased activity could last for several decades or centuries.&nbsp;

A huge eruption at another Iceland volcano, Eyjafjallajokull in the south of the island, in April 2010, forced the cancellation of 100,000 flights, stranding more than 10 million people.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Authorities in Iceland on Friday (Nov 10) declared a state of emergency after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country's southwestern Reykjanes peninsula.

Authorities in Iceland on Friday (Nov 10) declared a state of emergency after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country's southwestern Reykjanes peninsula. Experts believe that the recent quakes could be a precursor to a volcanic eruption. The Icelandic Met Office (IMO) has detected more than 20,000 tremors since late Oct with 1,400 in the 24 hours to midday on Thursday as the quakes appear to increase. The Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management said in a statement: "The National police chief … declares a state of emergency for civil defence due to the intense earthquake (activity) at Sundhnjukagigar, north of Grindavik." Also read: Global warming has upped Greenland glacier melting five-folds in 20 years The administration further warned that an eruption could take place "in several days" as it said that "earthquakes can become larger than those that have occurred and this series of events could lead to an eruption". The Department of Civil Protection also said it was sending the patrol vessel Thor to the village of Grindavik, home to around 4,000 people and located some three kilometres southwest of the area where Friday's earthquake swarm was registered, "for security purposes". The local authorities have also come up with evacuation plans in case of an eruption and the police closed a road running north-south to Grindavik on Friday after it was damaged by the tremors. Also read: Rare discovery: Tumour with teeth found in 3,000-year-old Egyptian burial Two powerful earthquakes were felt as far away as Reykjavik, Iceland's capital and along much of the country's southern coast around 1730 GMT. The IMO officials have said that the preliminary figures suggest that the biggest tremor had a magnitude of 5.2, north of Grindavik. The IMO said that there is an accumulation of magma is underground at a depth of about five kilometres and if it starts moving towards the surface it could lead to a volcanic eruption. "The most likely scenario is that it will take several days rather than hours for magma to reach the surface," it said. "If a fissure were to appear where the seismic activity is at its highest now, lava would flow to the southeast and to the west, but not towards Grindavik." Watch: Climate change and volcanic eruptions × Volcanoes in Iceland Three eruptions have occurred on the Reykjanes peninsula since 2021, in March 2021, August 2022, and July 2023. These three eruptions were in remote places with no infrastructure or people. Overall, Iceland has 33 active volcanic systems, which is the highest number in Europe. The North Atlantic island straddles the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a crack in the ocean floor separating the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. Prior to the March 2021 eruption in an uninhabited area around Mount Fagradalsfjall, the Reykjanes volcanic system had remained dormant for eight centuries. But now, volcanologists believe the new cycle of increased activity could last for several decades or centuries. A huge eruption at another Iceland volcano, Eyjafjallajokull in the south of the island, in April 2010, forced the cancellation of 100,000 flights, stranding more than 10 million people. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 20,000 tremors since late Oct: Iceland declares state of emergency over volcanic eruption threat

Women across Iceland, along with the nation's Prime Minister, on Tuesday (Oct&nbsp;24) will go on a strike.&nbsp;The huge strike is part of a campaign pushing for gender equality in the nation.

<h2>A show of solidarity</h2>

Talking to Iceland Monitor, Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Iceland's Prime Minister, announced she will not work on the strike day. She also said that she expects other female government members to do the same "in solidarity with Icelandic women".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/women-in-prehistoric-times-were-not-only-gatherers-but-hunters-too-study-650213">Hunting was not solely a man's arena in prehistoric times, women did it too, study suggests</a>

"As you know, we have not yet reached our goals of full gender equality, and we are still tackling the gender-based wage gap, which is unacceptable in 2023. We are still tackling gender-based violence, which has been a priority for my government to tackle," said Jakobsdóttir, as quoted by CNN.

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<h2>A strike for rights</h2>

This is only the seventh time the Nordic nation will be holding a strike called "Kvennafrí" or "Women's Day Off", which&nbsp;raises awareness about the "systemic" age discrimination and gender-based violence faced by women in Iceland.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/does-brain-structure-change-during-menstruation-research-says-yes-649830">Does brain structure change during menstruation? This is what research says</a>

The first such strike was held 48 years ago on October 24, 1975. Back then, as per reports, around 90 per cent of women refused to work.

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Icelandic women participate in Kvennafrí, 24th October 1975 (Image credit: Nupel/X)

"On 24 October, all women in Iceland, including immigrant women, are encouraged to stop work, both paid and unpaid. For the whole day, women (and non-binary people) will strike, to demonstrate the importance of their contribution to society," wrote the organiser on its website.

Watch |&nbsp;Iceland's PM a hypocrite? Dark side of Iceland's Gender Equality success

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The Tuesday strike is the first full day of action and, as per Nupel, at least 25 thousand people are expected to attend an event in the Reykjavik city centre, with many more participating in 10 events held across Iceland.&nbsp;

Organisers are using Tuesday's Kvennafrí to draw attention to the plight of immigrant women whose contribution to Iceland's society is "rarely acknowledged or reflected in the wages they receive". They have called on men to take up extra responsibility at home and work, as a way of showing their support for the striking women.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Women across Iceland, along with the nation's Prime Minister, on Tuesday (Oct 24) will go on a strike. The huge strike is part of a campaign pushing for gender equality in the nation.

Women across Iceland, along with the nation's Prime Minister, on Tuesday (Oct 24) will go on a strike. The huge strike is part of a campaign pushing for gender equality in the nation. A show of solidarity Talking to Iceland Monitor, Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Iceland's Prime Minister, announced she will not work on the strike day. She also said that she expects other female government members to do the same "in solidarity with Icelandic women". Also read | Hunting was not solely a man's arena in prehistoric times, women did it too, study suggests "As you know, we have not yet reached our goals of full gender equality, and we are still tackling the gender-based wage gap, which is unacceptable in 2023. We are still tackling gender-based violence, which has been a priority for my government to tackle," said Jakobsdóttir, as quoted by CNN. #WomenForPeace pic.twitter.com/LnroFxJDHh — Katrín Jakobsdóttir (@katrinjak) October 22, 2023 × A strike for rights This is only the seventh time the Nordic nation will be holding a strike called "Kvennafrí" or "Women's Day Off", which raises awareness about the "systemic" age discrimination and gender-based violence faced by women in Iceland. Also read | Does brain structure change during menstruation? This is what research says The first such strike was held 48 years ago on October 24, 1975. Back then, as per reports, around 90 per cent of women refused to work. Icelandic women participate in Kvennafrí, 24th October 1975 (Image credit: Nupel/X) "On 24 October, all women in Iceland, including immigrant women, are encouraged to stop work, both paid and unpaid. For the whole day, women (and non-binary people) will strike, to demonstrate the importance of their contribution to society," wrote the organiser on its website. Watch | Iceland's PM a hypocrite? Dark side of Iceland's Gender Equality success The Tuesday strike is the first full day of action and, as per Nupel, at least 25 thousand people are expected to attend an event in the Reykjavik city centre, with many more participating in 10 events held across Iceland. Organisers are using Tuesday's Kvennafrí to draw attention to the plight of immigrant women whose contribution to Iceland's society is "rarely acknowledged or reflected in the wages they receive". They have called on men to take up extra responsibility at home and work, as a way of showing their support for the striking women. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iceland PM to join thousands of women for 'Kvennafrí', a strike for gender equality

Iceland is often celebrated as a global leader in gender equality, but the reality on the ground paints a different picture. Despite its impressive record, women in some Icelandic jobs still earn 21% less than men. A massive women's strike has been planned in the country for Tuesday, one that will see its female Prime Minister, Katrín Jakobsdóttir, joining in solidarity. The question that arises is whether the Icelandic leader's support is enough, or if it is mere tokenism.

Iceland's PM a hypocrite? Dark side of Iceland's Gender Equality success

Iceland is facing a tourism boom. The increased tourism in the Nordic island nation is heavily impacting its pristine wilderness. Now, in a move to protect its environment and natural beauty, the nation's authorities have decided to shift to taxing tourism.

Tourism boom in Iceland heavily impacting its wilderness

After stretching a ban on hunting the fin whales for a whole two-months, Iceland is all set to resume whaling this week, but, with an all-new set of 'killing' guidelines.

Iceland allows whaling to resume in massive step backwards

The first European nation to do so, Iceland, announced on Tuesday that it has halted operations at its embassy in Moscow due to "all-time low" levels of business, cultural, and political ties between the two countries.

Iceland suspends embassy operations in Russia

Iceland: Molten lava flows down a volcano in Reykjavik

A volcano has erupted near Iceland's capital city of Reykjavik. The eruption took place following intense earthquake activity in the area. This is as per Iceland's meteorological office. According to the service and research division at the Iceland meteorological office, the eruption was very small, with no direct imminent hazard to people living within the region.

Volcano smoke seen billowing over skyline of Iceland's capital

Iceland's government said Tuesday it was suspending this year's whale hunt until the end of August due to animal welfare concerns, and in all likelihood&nbsp;bringing the controversial practice to a historic end.

Animal rights groups and environmentalists hailed the decision, with the Humane Society International calling it "a major milestone in compassionate whale conservation".

"I have taken the decision to suspend whaling&nbsp;until August 31," Food Minister Svandis Svavarsdottir said in a statement, after a government-commissioned report concluded the hunt does not comply with Iceland's Animal Welfare Act.

Recent monitoring by Iceland's Food and Veterinary Authority found that the killing of the animals took too long.

Shocking video clips broadcast by the veterinary authority showed a whale's agony as it was hunted for five hours.&nbsp;

"If the government and licensees cannot guarantee welfare requirements, these activities do not have a future," the minister said.

The country has only one remaining whaling company, Hvalur, and its licence to hunt fin whales expires in 2023.

Another company hung up its harpoons for good in 2020, saying it was no longer profitable.

Iceland's whaling season runs from mid-June to mid-September, and it is doubtful Hvalur would head out to sea that late in the season.

Annual quotas authorise the killing of 209 fin whales -- the second-longest marine mammal after the blue whale -- and 217 minke whales, one of the smallest species.

But catches have fallen drastically in recent years due to a dwindling market for whale meat.

<h2>'Can't be done humanely'</h2>

Iceland, Norway and Japan are the only countries in the world that have continued whale hunting in the face of fierce criticism from environmentalists and animal rights' defenders.

"There is no humane way to kill a whale at sea, and so we urge the minister to make this a permanent ban," the Humane Society International's executive director for Europe, Ruud Tombrock, said.

"Whales already face so many serious threats in the oceans from pollution, climate change, entanglement in fish nets and ship strikes, that ending cruel commercial whaling is the only ethical conclusion."

Robert Read, head of Sea Shepherd UK, said the decision was also "a huge blow" to other whaling nations.

"If whaling can't be done humanely here... it can't be done humanely anywhere."&nbsp;

"Whales are architects for the ocean. They help boost biodiversity, they help fight climate change by affecting the carbon cycling process," he added.

Opposition to whaling has been on the rise in Iceland with a majority now in favour of dropping the practice.

A survey published in early June indicated that 51 percent of Icelanders were opposed to the hunt and 29 percent in favour, with over-60s those most in favour.

Iceland has depended heavily on fishing and whaling for centuries.

But in the past two decades its tourism industry, including whale watching tours, has blossomed -- and the two key sectors of the economy have diverging interests.

Japan, by far the biggest market for whale meat, resumed commercial whaling in 2019 after a three-decade hiatus, drastically reducing the need for imports from Iceland.

 
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Iceland's government said Tuesday it was suspending this year's whale hunt until the end of August due to animal welfare concerns, and in all likelihood bringing the controversial practice to a historic end.

Iceland's government said Tuesday it was suspending this year's whale hunt until the end of August due to animal welfare concerns, and in all likelihood bringing the controversial practice to a historic end. Animal rights groups and environmentalists hailed the decision, with the Humane Society International calling it "a major milestone in compassionate whale conservation". "I have taken the decision to suspend whaling until August 31," Food Minister Svandis Svavarsdottir said in a statement, after a government-commissioned report concluded the hunt does not comply with Iceland's Animal Welfare Act. Recent monitoring by Iceland's Food and Veterinary Authority found that the killing of the animals took too long. Shocking video clips broadcast by the veterinary authority showed a whale's agony as it was hunted for five hours. "If the government and licensees cannot guarantee welfare requirements, these activities do not have a future," the minister said. The country has only one remaining whaling company, Hvalur, and its licence to hunt fin whales expires in 2023. Another company hung up its harpoons for good in 2020, saying it was no longer profitable. Iceland's whaling season runs from mid-June to mid-September, and it is doubtful Hvalur would head out to sea that late in the season. Annual quotas authorise the killing of 209 fin whales -- the second-longest marine mammal after the blue whale -- and 217 minke whales, one of the smallest species. But catches have fallen drastically in recent years due to a dwindling market for whale meat. 'Can't be done humanely' Iceland, Norway and Japan are the only countries in the world that have continued whale hunting in the face of fierce criticism from environmentalists and animal rights' defenders. "There is no humane way to kill a whale at sea, and so we urge the minister to make this a permanent ban," the Humane Society International's executive director for Europe, Ruud Tombrock, said. "Whales already face so many serious threats in the oceans from pollution, climate change, entanglement in fish nets and ship strikes, that ending cruel commercial whaling is the only ethical conclusion." Robert Read, head of Sea Shepherd UK, said the decision was also "a huge blow" to other whaling nations. "If whaling can't be done humanely here... it can't be done humanely anywhere." "Whales are architects for the ocean. They help boost biodiversity, they help fight climate change by affecting the carbon cycling process," he added. Opposition to whaling has been on the rise in Iceland with a majority now in favour of dropping the practice. A survey published in early June indicated that 51 percent of Icelanders were opposed to the hunt and 29 percent in favour, with over-60s those most in favour. Iceland has depended heavily on fishing and whaling for centuries. But in the past two decades its tourism industry, including whale watching tours, has blossomed -- and the two key sectors of the economy have diverging interests. Japan, by far the biggest market for whale meat, resumed commercial whaling in 2019 after a three-decade hiatus, drastically reducing the need for imports from Iceland. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ]

Iceland suspends whale hunting on animal welfare concerns after video shows five-hour agony

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