Residents of Grindavik in south-west Iceland are facing an anxious wait as a volcanic eruption looms on the Reykjanes peninsula. The town was evacuated a week ago as seismic activity and magma movement intensified, causing significant damage to the area.

The Icelandic meteorological office has assessed the situation and determined a "significant likelihood" of an eruption occurring along the 9-mile (15km) magma tunnel. The most vulnerable location is believed to be north of Grindavik, near the Hagafell mountain.

Grindavik, a quaint fishing town with a population of 3,400, is situated approximately 31 miles south-west of the capital city, Reykjavik. Due to its proximity to Keflavik airport, Iceland's main international flight hub, the potential eruption poses a significant threat to the community and has necessitated the closure of the nearby Blue Lagoon geothermal resort, a popular tourist attraction, until at least the end of November.

The volcanic system on the Reykjanes peninsula has undergone three eruptions since 2021, following an 800-year period of dormancy. These eruptions, although remote and not causing major damage, have raised concerns among both residents and authorities.

Iceland, located above a volcanic hotspot in the north Atlantic, experiences eruptions on average every four to five years. The most notable eruption in recent history was the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull volcano eruption, which unleashed massive ash clouds into the atmosphere, grounding flights across Europe for days as authorities feared that the ash particles could damage aircraft engines.

Scientists monitoring the current situation in Grindavik have stated that if an eruption occurs, it is likely to result in lava flow rather than an ash cloud. While this would minimize the impact on air travel, the potential destruction and disruption to the local community remain significant.

As the tension continues to mount, authorities are closely monitoring the volcano, providing updates on its activity and ensuring that necessary precautions are in place to mitigate any potential risks to life and property. The people of Grindavik and surrounding areas are united in hoping for the best possible outcome as they navigate through this challenging period of uncertainty.