Lava overflow in southwest Iceland forces closure of geothermal resort

(MENAFN) Recent volcanic activity in southwestern Iceland has resulted in the overflow of lava from the Sundhnukagigar crater, reaching the road near the town of Grindavikurvegur. The incident, reported on Sunday, prompted authorities to take precautionary measures, including the closure of a local geothermal resort, the Blue Lagoon. The Icelandic Meteorological Office confirmed that the lava breached defensive walls, necessitating the resort's closure before guests arrived to ensure their safety.

As lava flowed onto the road, concerns about potential wildfires arose, leading firefighters to be placed on high alert. Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with the Civil Protection Department to mitigate any further risks or disruptions caused by the volcanic activity. This occurrence marks the third instance of lava obstructing roads in the Reykjanes peninsula region, as reported by the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration.

The incident highlights the ongoing geological activity in Iceland, a country known for its dynamic landscape shaped by volcanic eruptions and other natural phenomena. While such events attract interest from scientists and tourists alike, they also pose challenges for local communities and infrastructure, underscoring the need for preparedness and response measures to ensure public safety and minimize the impact on affected areas.

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