Protecting Iceland’s Geothermal Plant: Preparing for Volcanic Eruption Risk

Streetworks continue, after cracks emerged on a road due to volcanic activity near Grindavik, Iceland obtained by Reuters on November 14, 2023. Road Administration of Iceland via Facebook/ Handout via REUTERS Acquire Licensing Rights

Amid concerns about an imminent volcanic eruption, Icelandic authorities are preparing to build protective walls around a geothermal power plant in the southwestern part of the country. Seismic activity and underground lava flows intensified on the Reykjanes peninsula near the capital Reykjavik, leading to the evacuation of nearly 4,000 people from the fishing town of Grindavik.

Despite a decrease in seismic activity, the probability of an eruption remains high, with nearly 800 earthquakes recorded in the area between midnight and noon on Tuesday. The Icelandic Meteorological Institute stated that while less seismic activity is often a precursor to an eruption, it should not be taken as a sign that an outbreak is not on the way.

Authorities are taking measures to construct a large dyke designed to divert lava flows around the Svartsengi geothermal power plant, while equipment and materials are being moved to the plant in preparation. The power plant supplies electricity to the entire country, but authorities are taking preventive measures to protect against potential disruptions.

Residents of Grindavik have been allowed to briefly return to their homes to collect belongings, as long cracks have left the main street impassable. Steam rising from the ground and elevated levels of sulfur dioxide detected by the meteorological office have led to the town being evacuated at short notice.

The situation near Grindavik remains tense as authorities continue to monitor activity and take action to protect the area from potential volcanic eruptions.
Additional reporting by Louise Breusch Rasmussen, Johannes Gotfredsen-Birkebaek, Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen and Niklas Pollard; editing by Christina Fincher, Alex Richardson, Mark Heinrich, Alexandra HudsonOur Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. Acquire Licensing Rights, opens new tab

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