European Space Agency’s (ESA) Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellite has captured infrared signals showing solidified lava near Grindavík.
Lava in Grindavik, Iceland, 50cm, WorldView 2
Satellite Images © Maxar Technologies Collected By European Space Imaging
On December 18, 2023, The Svartsengi volcano system erupted near Grindavík, starting the first eruption lasting until December 21st. The location identified as Sundhnukagigar, is denoted by a row of craters outside Grindavík that previously erupted over 2,500 years ago.
On January 14, 2024, a second eruption started near Hagafell Mountain, much closer to Grindavík, lasting until January 16th. Lava flows threatened the town and caused evacuations.
On January 17, 2024, Copernicus Sentinel-2 captures an image showing solidified lava near Grindavík.
Now, Iceland Met Office reports continued magma accumulation and potential hazards with satellite images showing dark patches of solidified lava contrasting with fresh snow.
Magma accumulation continues, raising concerns about new eruptions. Land uplift is also observed at a rate slightly exceeding pre-eruption measurements and low seismic activity still persists near Hagafell.