While the eruption in Fimmvörduháls is still of relatively small size in comparison to recent eruptions in Iceland (there is about one eruption every three years in the country), there is big uncertainty about possible future developments. The Icelandic Meteorological Institute reported an increase in the activity, with lava flowing in the Hvannárgil canyon (source). The biggest fears, at this point, are:
- Increase in the activity of the eruption that could make it reach the Eyjafjallajökull glacier, thus triggering dangerous floods.
- Increase in ash formation; volcanic ash can be dangerous for animals and machines. Planes leaving Iceland were recommended to keep an height of at least 5,000 feet.
- A chain reaction that would lead to the eruption of the Ketla volcano, one of the most dangerous in Iceland. Thankfully, there is no proof that the current eruption may be connected to the Ketla.
For those wondering, life in Reykjavík is going exactly as usual. People directly affected by the eruption are farmers and families in the surroundings of the eruption, about 500 people, who had to leave their houses within 2 hours after the beginning of the eruption. While they were allowed to re-enter their houses, most of them were asked to spend the night elsewhere by the Civil Protection.
You can find some amazing photos from the Fimmvörðuháls hiking path, where the eruption is located, here.