A series of severe earthquakes has struck Iceland’s southwestern Reykjanes peninsula, potentially signaling an imminent volcanic eruption.
The region experienced a substantial seismic swarm, recording 24,000 earthquakes, with around 800 reported between midnight and 1400 GMT on Friday, reported AFP.
The heightened seismic activity prompted the closure of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon monument, and a state of emergency was declared by the National police chief.
The town of Grindavik, located near the epicenter, has initiated evacuation procedures in anticipation of a potential volcanic eruption.
Emergency shelters have been opened, and information centers established to aid those affected.
Iceland, positioned on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, boasts 33 active volcanic systems, making it highly susceptible to earthquakes due to its location on the divergent tectonic plate boundary between North American and Eurasian plates.