Several earthquakes had sparked fears of a volcanic eruption in Iceland. There was no eruption. The Blue Lagoon tourist attraction is now reopening. However, some residents of the area are not yet allowed to return completely.
After the Blue Lagoon in Iceland was temporarily closed due to a series of earthquakes in a volcanic area, the internationally famous tourist attraction is now set to welcome guests again. The geothermal pool with its white-blue water and adjacent cafes and restaurants open on Sunday, but two hotels will remain closed until at least next Thursday.
The operators of the outdoor pool said the decision was made together with the authorities. The facility is in excellent condition and the buildings have only suffered minor damage.
Authorities still believe an eruption is possible
The Blue Lagoon is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula around 40 kilometers southwest of Reykjavik and just under 20 minutes by car from Keflavik International Airport. It was closed on November 9 due to an ongoing series of earthquakes and concerns of a volcanic eruption in the area. Contrary to fears, no eruption has occurred so far – but authorities still believe it is possible. The earthquakes have decreased in frequency and intensity.
In November, the town of Grindavík, a few kilometers south of the Blue Lagoon, was evacuated. As the Icelandic broadcaster RUV recently reported, residents can now enter their homes again during the day. However, they are not allowed to return completely: With people’s safety in mind, it was decided that they would not be allowed to spend the night in Grindavík until the end of the year, the broadcaster reported.