Researchers fear that small tremors could precede a volcanic eruption.
On October 27, the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) reported alarming news: the country had been hit by a “seismic swarm” of small earthquakes. The Hindu writes that although such tremors are a common occurrence in this region, scientists are confident that this time they are a sign of something bigger.
The problem is that earthquakes are actually an everyday occurrence in Iceland, but according to scientists, the recent earthquakes were more extensive than usual. Observations show that a seismic swarm hit the Reykjanes Peninsula, located in the southwest of the country. In just three days of observation, scientists recorded more than 5,500 small tremors here. IMO officials now believe that this number of earthquakes increases the likelihood of volcanic eruptions.
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Iceland lies on the border of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, making it a hot spot for seismic and volcanic activity as the two plates move in opposite directions.
Major earthquakes are part of a long-term history that scientists are aware of, according to Matthew Roberts, IMO head of service and research. But they also mean that Iceland is entering a phase of preparation for its next volcanic eruption.
It is known that the tremors occurred at a depth of about 5 kilometers and were caused by the long-term accumulation of magma, which created pressure for a long time and now drifted towards the surface of the planet.
Note that in early 2023, a volcanic eruption occurred in the uninhabited part of the Reykjanes Peninsula, preceded by a strong earthquake. The event was actually the third to be held in the region southwest of the capital Reykjavik since 2021.
The IMO now believes that a large-scale seismic swarm may be evidence of the development of a fourth eruption. But as we know, volcanic activity is still extremely difficult to predict.
Roberts said the evidence showed it was “very likely” a volcanic eruption would occur in the region within the next 12 months. The data showed that the largest earthquake from the swarm had a magnitude of 4.5, and about 15 had a magnitude of 3 or more. Meanwhile, data from Michigan Technological University suggests that earthquakes above magnitude 2.5 can often be felt by humans.
Previously Focus wrote that scientists recreated the volcanic eruption of 1650: the mystery of the tsunami it created was revealed.
Source: Focus
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