The activity has been stable since late yesterday.
The fountaining is now limited to two clusters of vents, of which the northernmost part appears to have decreased. Thus, the eruption is dominated in the southern part of the fissure, from where the lava keeps the southern arm active. The lava slowly continues to approach the Suðurstrandarveð road; it was about 330 meters to reach the road in the morning.
According to the latest official data taken from satellite image, the area covered by lava flows is estimated to be about 5.85 km2 measured yesterday, although there might be some distortions compared to aerial images. If weather conditions allow, a reconnaissance flight will be made over the eruption site.
Speaking about the weather forecast, a wind direction at the measurement stations is expected to be blowing from east-southeast, reaching a velocity of 8-13 m/s. Thus, a gas pollution supposed to be affect west and northwest parts of the Reykjanes peninsula, including Reykjavík, the capital city.
Source: Icelandic Met Office volcano activity update 18 March 2024
