Eruption Expected Within Three Days

An eruption on the Sundhnúkur crater row could begin within three days, according to a volcanologist, reports RÚV.

Volcanologist Þorvaldur Þórðarson believes the earthquake swarm that started near Reykjanestá (the uttermost tip of Reykjanes Peninsula) yesterday is related to magma accumulation. Around five hundred earthquakes have been recorded in the area in the past 24 hours, seven of which were magnitude 3 or higher.

Magma accumulation beneath Svartsengi continues steadily, and it is certain that the next eruption is imminent.

Considering that magma influx is considerably slower than in the lead-up to previous eruptions, it’s still a bit short of the required amount. To reach the same amount as last time, magma influx would need to continue for several more days. “If an eruption occurs, it’s likely to happen within the next three days,” says Þorvaldur.

Þorvaldur believes magma is accumulating at a depth of about five kilometres. “I think this is definitely related to magma accumulation there,” Þorvaldur says.