Iceland has declared a state of emergency after a massive volcano erupted for the fourth time in three months. The eruption, which began on Sunday, opened a nearly 2-mile-long fissure between Stóra-Skógfell and Hagafell mountains on the Reykjanes Peninsula, according to Iceland's Meteorological Office.

The volcanic activity had been anticipated for weeks, as magma had been accumulating underground. Although the eruption had slowed down significantly, it had not yet come to an end. The volcano is part of a 9-mile-long magma tunnel beneath the ground, known to stretch north from Grindavík toward Sundhnúk in the Reykjanes Peninsula.

The lava, ash, and smoke that spewed out of the fissure moved at an average speed of close to 39 feet per hour. According to the meteorological office, at this pace, it could take another 20 hours for the lava to reach the main road. However, no disruptions in flights have been reported at Iceland's main airport or other regional airports.

While no deaths have been confirmed, there has been one report of a missing worker who was last seen near the volcanic fissure. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and actively seeking information about the missing individual.

The state of emergency allows Icelandic officials to take necessary measures to ensure public safety and manage the impact of the eruption. The government is working closely with various agencies to mitigate the potential risks to the local population and infrastructure.

As Iceland continues to monitor the volcanic activity, residents and tourists are urged to remain vigilant, follow any evacuation orders, and stay updated with the latest information from authorities.