Iceland volcano spews lava and smoke for a second day

By Reuters
May 30, 2024 5:54 AM EDT Updated an hour ago

COPENHAGEN, May 30 (Reuters) - A volcano in Iceland spewed smoke and lava for a second day on Thursday but winds were expected to carry poisonous gas pollution away from the capital Reykjavik, authorities said.

The eruption, the fifth since December, was the most powerful in the area since volcanic systems on the Reykjanes peninsula became active three years ago after lying dormant for eight centuries, according to the Icelandic Met Office.

The town of Grindavik, where only a few people have returned after several homes were destroyed by lava earlier this year, was again subject to an evacuation order, as was the nearby Blue Lagoon outdoor spa, a major tourist attraction.

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"Westerly winds are expected today, and gas pollution may then spread to the east over southern Iceland," the agency said.

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